Inter Milan have sacked manager Claudio Ranieri just hours after saying that his job at the San Siro was safe.

A poor season has led to constant speculation regarding the Italian's future, with Inter currently eighth in the Serie A table, 22 points behind leaders and rivals AC Milan.

Club president Massimo Moratti had earlier indicated that Ranieri would remain manager until the end of the season, but instead he has decided to fire the 60-year-old.

A statement on the club website read: "President Massimo Moratti and everyone at Inter Milan would like to thank Claudio Ranieri and his staff for their professionalism, dedication and honesty during their time in charge of the team.

"Inter also announce that they have entrusted the team to Andrea Stramaccioni, the coach who won the first edition of the Next Generation Series."

Ranieri was appointed as boss of the Italian giants in September 2011.