Chengdu Blades have official announced the departure of manager Li Bing by mutual consent, following four consecutive defeats in the Chinese Super League.

Li Bing was in charge since January 2006 and leaves with a glowing reference from Chengdu Blades Chairman, Tony Xu:

"Li Bing is a good manager and, as the first one in the Blades history, did a superb job. He led the club to our dream of playing in China's top-flight and he has always had the highest level of respect from the players and fans. It is sad we have to announce this news, but we must move on."

Blades Technical Director Don O'Riordan will take charge of the team until a new manager is installed.