Poland axe Santos after six games in charge

Poland have relieved manager Fernando Santos of his duties after only six games in charge.

The 68-year-old, best known for managing Portugal to glory at Euro 2016, took up the role in January and did oversee an impressive 1-0 friendly win over Germany in June.

However, the Poles lost three of their five competitive games under his watch including embarrassing defeats to Moldova and Albania.

Santos received widespread criticism in Poland for his tactics and lack of appearances at domestic matches — meaning last Sunday's 2-0 loss to Albania proved the final straw for his superiors.

In a statement, the Polish Football Association thanked Santos for his efforts, while the boss said he had been grateful for the opportunity.

Disastrous recent results have left them sitting fourth in their Euro 2024 qualifying group, already requiring results to go in their favour elsewhere if they are to secure a top-two finish. 

It is not yet clear whether a successor to Santos will be appointed prior to the country's next qualifier, which is at group minnows the Faroe Islands in October.

Even if Poland finish outside the top two in their group, they will still have an opportunity to book a spot in Germany next summer via the play-offs.

Of those nations who fail to progress, the 12 teams who performed best in the 2022-23 Nations League will contest semi-final and final clashes to secure one of the last three qualifying berths. 

Euro 2024 would likely represent a final major tournament for legendary striker Robert Lewandowski, who scored three goals during Santos' doomed tenure.