Ex-Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey named interim player-manager of relegation-threatened Championship club as head coach is axed

Cardiff have confirmed that manager Riza has been relieved of his duties with the Welsh side currently second from bottom in the Championship with three games remaining. Former Juventus midfielder Ramsey, who is in the last months of his Cardiff deal, will now take charge of these remaining fixtures as they try to maintain their status in the division.

A club statement reads: "Cardiff City FC can confirm that a decision has been taken to relieve Omer Riza of his duties as First Team Manager. Aaron Ramsey will lead the club for the remaining three games of the Sky Bet Championship season, beginning with Monday’s match at home to Oxford United. Chris Gunter, Joe Ralls, Tom Hutton and Matthew Bloxham will join Aaron in the technical area. We’d like to thank Omer for his passion and effort during his time as Cardiff City manager and wish him the very best for his next steps in the game."

This will be Ramsey's first stint as a manager, and the pressure could not be higher as Cardiff are second from bottom but, crucially, are just one point from safety. The Bluebirds play two of their last three matches at home so that could work in the Welshman's favour as he tries to save them from relegation to League One.

Ramsey's first game in the dugout will be on Easter Monday at home to fellow strugglers Oxford United