Bristol Rovers have sacked manager Joey Barton after almost three years in charge, just a fortnight ahead of a trip to Reading.

The controversial former England international took the Pirates to promotion from League Two in 2021/22 before consolidating with a 17th-place finish last campaign.

Currently sat 16th, the side had hoped for a stronger start and have removed Barton after 13 matches.

His final match in charge was a 1-1 draw with Stevenage on Tuesday, becoming the fifth boss sacked in the first three months of the season.

Rovers visit Berkshire next month (November 7), with the original fixture postponed due to international involvements.

With 12 days until the match, it is likely that the club will have a new manager in place for the midweek journey up the M4.

A club statement read: "Everyone at the club would like to thank Joey for all his efforts and wish him well in the future.

"In the interim, Andy Mangan will lead the team supported by Glenn Whelan, Danny Ventre and Anssi Jaakkola who will remain in post."