Former Celtic coach Harry Kewell has been sacked by Yokohama F Marinos after just seven months at the helm.

The Australian hero chose to call time on his stint in Scotland to take up the opportunity in Japan last December.

Kewell had been brought into the club by Ange Postecoglou but was not taken with the manager to Tottenham.

He then was appointed manager of Marinos in his own right but has endured a difficult spell in charge of the club.

After 23 matches, Yokohama F Marinos - who regularly challenge for the league crown - sit 12th in the table - twenty points off top spot.

The dire run of form recently prompted club chiefs to relieve Kewell of his duties.

A short statement from the Japanese club read: "Yokohama F.Marinos announce today that we have terminated the contract with Manager Harry Kewell, who has been leading the top team from 2024 season.

"Further, John Hutchinson, Head Coach, will manage as an interim manager for the time being."

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On leaving Celtic to join Yokohama, Kewell said last year:  "I would like to thank Celtic for giving me such a wonderful opportunity to be part of one of the world’s great football clubs. 

"It has been an absolute privilege to work with Celtic with two great managers in Brendan and Ange.

"It has been an honour to be part of such a fantastic institution and it is a time in my career and life, which I will never forget.

"I have worked with great coaches, players and backroom staff and  together we have enjoyed some brilliant moments together with the Celtic fans.

“I would like to thank everyone at the club and all the fans who have given me and the team such brilliant support.

“I would also like to thank Brendan for giving me such support in pursuing this new opportunity. It is a very difficult decision to leave Celtic but I feel the management opportunity presented to me is one I would like to pursue.

“I will always be a Celtic supporter and i will always wish nothing but the very best for the club.

"I hope the club and our supporters can enjoy more and more success."