Head coach Nuno Espirito Santo has been sacked by Tottenham less than five months after being appointed

The news of Nuno Espirito Santo’s dismissal comes after the 3-0 home defeat to Manchester United on Saturday, their fourth defeat in six Premier League games.

Tottenham are eighth in the Premier League, 10 points off leaders Chelsea, are in talks with Antonio Conte as they seek a fourth permanent manager in the last three years.

A Spurs statement said: “The club can today announce that Nuno Espirito Santo and his coaching staff Ian Cathro, Rui Barbosa and Antonio Dias have been relieved of their duties.

“A further coaching update will follow in due course.”

Spurs managing director of football Fabio Paratici added: “I know how much Nuno and his coaching staff wanted to succeed and I regret that we have had to take this decision.

“Nuno is a true gentleman and will always be welcome here. We should like to thank him and his coaching staff and wish them well for the future.”

Roy Keane castigated Tottenham as “boring” after their toothless display on Saturday Night Football.

Spurs have not had a shot on target in their last two hours and 16 minutes of football since Harry Kane’s header in the 44th minute against West Ham and Keane delivered a withering assessment of their display.

“Spurs are boring,” complained Sky Sports pundit Keane. “They are boring to watch.

“You’re looking for a bit of urgency. Nothing. I couldn’t believe how bad they were.”