Dutch giants Ajax sack coach John Heitinga

Dutch giants Ajax said Thursday they had sacked coach John Heitinga after a poor start to the season that has seen them rooted to the bottom of the Champions League table.

"Ajax is looking for a new head coach. In the meantime, Fred Grim will take over Heitinga's duties," the four-time European champions said in a statement.

Heitinga signed a two-year contract in May but has not been able to mastermind a turnaround in the club's fortunes. His contract would be terminated, Ajax said.

The club's technical director Alex Kroes admitted it was a "painful decision.

"We know it can take time for a new coach to work with a squad that has undergone changes," said Kroes.

"We have given John that time, but we believe it's best for the club to appoint someone else to lead the team."

Kroes himself offered his resignation but the board asked him to stay in place to offer some continuity.

The technical director is under contract until the end of the season. 

"Should the club appoint a new technical director earlier, I will hand over my responsibilities at that time," he said.