Updated

Inter Milan announced Wednesday that Gian Piero Gasperini has been relieved of his coaching duties following a poor start to the season that included one draw and four defeats in his first five competitive matches.

The final straw came on Tuesday when Inter suffered a 3-1 defeat at newly- promoted side Novara.

"The Club would like to thank Gian Piero Gasperini for the dedication he has shown in his work," Inter released is a statement via the club's website.

Gasperini, 53, follows in the footsteps of Rafael Benitez and Leonardo, becoming the third coach to leave Inter following the departure of Jose Mourinho in 2010.

According to the club, Daniele Bernazzani and Giuseppe Baresi had taken charge of training Wednesday morning.