Club Brugge sacked coach Georges Leekens after they lost 1-0 at home to Zulte-Waregem.

Leekens, who leaves with his side in midtable having won six of their 14 Jupiler Pro League matches this season, was unable to prevent a recent slump which continued against Zulte.

A club statement read: "Club Brugge has terminated the collaboration with Georges Leekens and (his assistant) Rudi Verkempinck.

"Until a new head coach has been appointed, reserve team coach Philippe Clement will be in charge of the training sessions, in co-operation with other staff members."

Brugge's general manager Vincent Mannaert added on the club's official website: "It was not an easy nor a hasty decision.

"The performances and the results have been insufficient even considering the injuries in the squad.

"The choice of coach has not led to what we had in mind. That is a disappointment for which we ourselves bear the responsibility. We must and will learn the lessons from it."

The news overshadowed a wonderful win for Zulte, who move back to the top of the table as a result.

The visitors were looking to reclaim their place at the summit following Anderlecht's 4-1 victory at Mechelen yesterday and did so impressively.

Club Brugge had Ryan Donk sent-off after 31 minutes and Zulte capitalised thanks to a goal from Thorgan Hazard, on loan from Chelsea, five minutes later.

Standard Liege moved up to seventh with a 2-0 home win over OH Leuven.

Leuven would have gone third with a win but were undone by goals from William Vainqueur and Michy Batshuayi.