Burnley have dismissed manager Nicky Hayen after just 12 games in charge following a 4-1 defeat to Lincoln City that left the club in the Championship relegation zone.

The Belgian was appointed in July with the task of guiding the Clarets back to the Premier League, but a disappointing start to the campaign ultimately cost him his job.

Burnley confirmed his departure in a brief statement released on Saturday evening, announcing that he had been dismissed with immediate effect.

“The Board has taken the decision following a disappointing start to the Championship season,” the club said.

Lincoln defeat seals Hayen’s fate

Hayen struggled to turn Burnley’s fortunes around, failing to win any of his first eight Championship matches.

His only victory came earlier this month, when Burnley beat Watford 4-0 away from home.

However, the heavy loss to newly promoted Lincoln proved decisive, extending a difficult run that had also included a 2-1 home defeat to Wolves in their previous match.

The latest setback pushed Burnley into the relegation zone and increased the pressure on Hayen, who had been given the responsibility of securing an immediate return to the top flight.

Following the Lincoln defeat, the former head coach was uncertain about his future when questioned by reporters.

“I don’t know,” Hayen said when asked whether he would still be in charge the following week.

He acknowledged the significance of the result and suggested the club’s board would need to consider its next move.

“I know it’s a really hard defeat and something to think about for the board also,” he added.

Hayen insisted he would not lose his determination despite the difficult circumstances, saying his future was “out of my hands”.

Bellamy linked with potential vacancy

Attention will now turn to Burnley’s search for a successor as the club attempts to recover from its poor start to the season.

Wales manager Craig Bellamy had previously held talks about replacing Scott Parker at Turf Moor during the summer, although the proposed move did not materialise.

Hayen’s departure could renew speculation about Bellamy’s potential appointment, particularly amid questions over Wales’ recent Nations League performances.

Burnley have yet to announce who will take charge following Hayen’s dismissal as they look to improve their position in the Championship.