“My role as Sporting Director is to make the tough decisions that serve the long-term interests of Stoke City. Following ongoing discussions with John Coates, we feel this is the right time for a change of direction to bring success to the club,” said Sporting Director John Walters.

“We have a young, dynamic team that is eager to grow and have a clear vision on how to achieve success, and we look forward to announcing a new appointment soon. Fans, staff and players will need to pull together. As always in football, these decisions are difficult, and we wish Stevenage and his staff all the best for the future," he said.

Schumacher joined the Championship team from Plymouth Argyle in December and led the team to safety in his first season.

They have suffered defeats in their opening five games of the new season against Watford, Oxford United and Plymouth Argyle, leaving them 13th in the table.

Alex Morris and Ryan Shawcross will take charge of the team, with Mark Hughes, Chris Cohen, Peter Cavanagh and Elliot Turner also leaving the club.

“Steven, Mark, Chris, Peter and Elliot depart with our thanks for their efforts and our best wishes for their future careers. We are confident in the team of players we have assembled and are confident that they can lead Stoke City to success this season. I am extremely grateful to the club's fans for their loyal and passionate support,” said Chairman John Coates.

Stoke City take on Fleetwood Town in the Carabao Cup third round in front of home fans on Wednesday.