Fulham confirm high-profile exits

Rene Meulensteen, Alan Curbishley and Ray Wilkins have all left Fulham as part of major backroom restructuring.

Speculation has been rife over the embattled Barclays Premier League club's managerial set-up since Friday's shock announcement of Felix Magath as new first-team manager, following Wednesday's defeat to Liverpool.

The announcement brought an end to Meulensteen's 75-day spell at the Craven Cottage helm, but, despite him claiming he had been "released", he remained contracted as head coach.

However, the Dutchman has now formally left Fulham alongside four other members of the coaching staff, while Magath has brought Tomas Oral in as first-team coach and named Werner Leuthard conditioning coach.

Former Charlton and West Ham manager Curbishley has left his role as first-team technical director, while Wilkins has vacated the post of assistant manager. Mick Priest and Jonathan Hill have also left the Whites.

"I am very grateful to Rene, Alan and Ray, as well as Mick and Jonathan, for their commitment to Fulham," chairman Shahid Khan said in a statement released on Tuesday night.

"Their efforts were admirable and appreciated, and I wish them the best.

"Felix has come to Fulham with purpose and exceptional confidence, and I know he is extremely pleased to have Tomas Oral and Werner Leuthard join him for the mission ahead.

"From today forward, the focus is singularly on winning football matches and remaining in the Barclays Premier League. The work has begun."

Magath's first game comes away at West Brom this Saturday - one of 12 matches left remaining for the Cottagers, who lie four points adrift of safety at the bottom of the table.