New York Jets sack head coach Saleh

Robert Saleh had been in charge of the Jets for three years

The New York Jets have fired head coach Robert Saleh following their defeat by the Minnesota Vikings in London on Sunday.

The Jets have had a disappointing start to the season with three defeats in five games.

Saleh, 45, had been in charge since 2021 and finishes with a 20-36 record after failing to make the play-offs in each of his three full seasons.

Firing Saleh marks the first time in owner Woody Johnson's 25-year tenure that he has sacked a coach during a season.

"This was not an easy decision, but we are not where we should be given our expectations and I believe now is the best time for us to move in a different direction," Johnson said in a statement.

Defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich will be the interim head coach for the remainder of the season.

"[Ulbrich] is a tough coach who has the respect of the coaches and players on this team," Johnson added.

"I believe he, along with the coaches on this staff, can get the most out of our talented team and attain the goals we established off-season."

Analysis - 'If you’re going to make a change, this is the time'

Jason Bell, former Dallas Cowboys, Houston Texans and New York Giants cornerback, speaking to BBC Sport:

"I know he was under a lot of pressure and he needed to come out with a win, some kind of a victory.

"So there's always a little pressure for a coach that is kind of on the hot seat because if you're going to make a change, this is the time to do it."

Osi Umenyiora, former New York Giants and Atlanta Falcons defensive end:

"I'm very surprised. He's had a rough couple of years and I think the introduction of [quarterback] Aaron Rodgers was supposed to take that team to that next level.

"He's a defensive coach, that's what he does, and their defence has played well. So for him to be the guy whose head rolls, that's a strange one. But that's the NFL for you."