Valencia sack coach Javi Gracia with just four games to go in La Liga

Valencia have sacked coach Javi Gracia after Sunday's 3-2 defeat to Barcelona left them six points clear of relegation with four games to go. 

Gabriel Paulista gave Valencia the lead in the second half but two goals from Lionel Messi helped Barça turn the game around.

A statement said: "Valencia CF announced this Monday the dismissal of Javi Gracia as coach of the first team.

"The club wants to publicly thank him for his work and dedication during these months leading the team and wishes him the best of success for the future.

"Salvador González 'Voro' will lead the first team on a provisional basis." 

Gracia took over at the start of the season and had to deal with the loss of a number of key players, including Dani Parejo and Rodrigo. 

He leaves Valencia with 36 points from their 34 games, 14th in the table and six clear of Huesca, who are in the final relegation spot. 

Valencia have to play three of the teams below them in the run-in. 

They host Real Valladolid next and also have to play Eibar and Huesca. They also travel to Sevilla, who are fourth. 

Prior to landing the job at Mestalla, Gracia, 51, has coached Watford, Rubin Kazan, Malaga, Osasuna and Almeria, among others.