Luigi de Canio's reign as manager of Queens Park Rangers came to a shock end this afternoon.

The 50-year-old Italian was only appointed last October after Rangers had sacked John Gregory.

Despite steering QPR away from the relegation zone and into mid-table safety it was announced today that De Canio had left the club by mutual consent.

After Sunday's defeat to West Brom the players were not told anything about De Canio's future and were sent on holiday believing the Italian would be in charge next season.

The latest development comes after a report at the weekend claimed former France midfielder Zinedine Zidane was being lined up to take over at Loftus Road.

Rangers refused to comment on who would succeed De Canio but said in a statement: "We would like to place on record our thanks to Luigi for his contribution to QPR and wish him all the best for a successful future.

"Mr De Canio would like to express his gratitude for the opportunity to manage QPR and also for the fantastic experience he had during his time in England.

"The club will be making no further comment at this stage."