Marseille head coach Michel has been suspended ahead of the club's Coupe de France semi-final

Marseille have suspended head coach Michel on the eve of the club's Coupe de France semi-final.

A dismal season for the Ligue 1 giants has taken a turn for the worse in recent weeks, with Marseille winless in their last seven matches.

They have fallen away to 15th place in the table, and sit uncomfortably just six points above the relegation zone with four rounds of fixtures remaining.

A statement on the club's website read: "Given the behaviour of Michel, notably during these last three weeks, the professional sports limited company of Olympique Marseille has suspended him with immediate effect and summoned him to a preliminary interview.

Despite Michy Batshuayi's 15 goals this season, Marseille are only six points clear of the drop zone in Ligue 1

"Until the end of the season, Franck Passi, assistant coach, will oversee the team and will be assisted in his mission by Basile Boli, who is named as sports co-ordinator."

Former Real Madrid and Spain international midfielder Michel took charge of l'OM in August after Marcelo Bielsa's resignation. The 53-year-old has previously been in charge of Getafe, Sevilla and Olympiacos.

Marseille travel to play Sochaux in the French cup on Wednesday evening.