Cape Town - SuperSport United have announced that Eric Tinkler has resigned as head coach of the Absa Premiership club with immediate effect.

The former Cape Town City mentor penned a three-year contract, however stepped down after joining Matsatsantsa 10 months ago.

Tinkler's exit comes following the Tshwane giant's poor form, which has seen United win just six of their 23 Absa Premiership matches this season and sees them sit three points clear of the relegation zone.

"I have been in discussion with club management about the poor performance of the team for a while now. In reflecting on the last few games, I have not been satisfied with the response out on the pitch," said Tinkler.

"I believe we can turn things around but the only way of getting out of our current position is to have a fully unified and committed response from the players and I haven’t been able to get that from them, so it seems best for all parties that we part ways.

"I wish the Club all the best and I am glad I could add to their trophy cabinet with MTN8," ended Tinkler.

In his 10 months at the helm, United lifted up the MTN 8 trophy beating Cape Town City in October last year.

Assistant coach Kaitano Tembo has been appointed to serve as caretaker coach until the end of the season.

Tembo's first match in charge will be Saturday's Absa Premiership clash against Maritzburg United at the Lucas Moripe Stadium.

Kick-off is at 18:00.

.@SuperSportFC have agreed to release Eric Tinkler from his contract with immediate effect following his resignation as Head Coach earlier today #SkeemaMatsatsantsa

— SuperSport United FC (@SuperSportFC) March 2, 2018

Matthews. "We decided to accept Eric’s resignation today. Clearly, the League results achieved have not been up to the standards we set for ourselves.

— SuperSport United FC (@SuperSportFC) March 2, 2018