Manchester City could sack manager Manuel Pellegrini before the end of the season, according to reports.
The City boss is fighting for his future after a terrible slump in form, which has seen them lose six of their previous eight games in all competitions.
The Guardian reports that the City board are ready to replace the Chilean if they feel that their top-four place is in jeopardy, putting extra pressure on Pellegrini against West Ham United this Saturday.
The paper reports that elite development squad coach Patrick Vieira would probably take charge until the end of the season, much like Ryan Giggs did when David Moyes was removed by Manchester United at a similar stage last year.
City currently sit four points above fifth-placed Liverpool, and have back-to-back home games against West Ham and Aston Villa.
