Viktor Skripnik replaces Robin Dutt at Werder Bremen

The Werder Bremen hierarchy have responded to the team's poor start to the season by sacking head coach Robin Dutt and immediately naming Viktor Skripnik as his successor.

A 1-0 loss to FC Koln on Friday night stretched Bremen's winless run in the Bundesliga to nine games, and they have promoted former reserve team manager Skripnik in an effort to avoid being included in a relegation fight this campaign.

"We would like to thank Robin Dutt and his team for the work they have done," Bremen sporting director Thomas Eichin revealed in a statement. "He led Bremen through a difficult phase in recent months with his great passion.

"After recent results, we were however convinced that the team needs fresh impetus to get out of the current situation."

Torsten Frings and Christian Vander will form part of Skripnik's coaching staff.