Olivier Azam won't take charge of Oyonnax when they play Ulster this weekend.

Olivier Azam won't take charge of Oyonnax when they play Ulster this weekend.

AS PREPARATIONS GO, it’s hardly ideal but Oyonnax have sacked their head coach less than 48 hours out from their Champions Cup clash with Ulster this weekend.

Olivier Azam only arrived in the offseason following the departure of Christophe Urios who had spent eight years with the club, guiding them from the French second tier all the way to Europe’s elite competition.

However, following six defeats in his opening eight games in charge — including a 38-3 hammering at the hands of La Rochelle last weekend — the former Lyon forwards coach has been shown the door.

That result left them second from bottom of the Top 14 and Lequipe report that club president Thierry Emin took the decision this morning despite Oyonnax preparing for their Champions Cup debut this weekend.

There is no word yet on the former Gloucester hooker’s replacement.