Garry Monk has broken his silence following his departure from Swansea and backed his former players to turn things round at the Welsh club.
Monk replaced Michael Laudrup as manager in February last year but was relieved of his duties on Wednesday after picking up just one win in 11 Premier League games.
The former defender and captain's final game in charge was Saturday's 3-0 home defeat to Leicester City which leaves the club 15th in the table.
"It's with great sadness that I am leaving this special club," said the 36-year-old in an emotional statement released through the League Managers Association.
"Over the last twelve years I have been part of the Swansea City family. It has been both an honour and a privilege to play for and manage this club.
"I believe that whenever you join a football club, the supporters deserve your blood, sweat and tears. I can say for sure I gave all those things and more.
"I have had too many amazing memories to mention them all. As a player captaining the club to three promotions, a League Cup winners medal and of course winning promotion to the Premier League via the Championship Play Off Final will be some of the best highlights.
"The biggest honour, for sure, was wearing the white jersey with pride."
Monk guided the Swans to their highest ever Premier League finish of eighth in his first full season in charge and kicked off this campaign by holding champions Chelsea to a 2-2 draw at Stamford Bridge.
A home win over Manchester United at the end of August capped an unbeaten four-match start in the league but his side's form deteriorated and he oversaw only one more victory.
"Everyone at the club from myself, my staff and the players themselves have been working tirelessly to change this loss of form, but unfortunately have not been able to in satisfactory time," added Monk.
"I have no doubt whatsoever that these players will start to show their true quality again very soon, and the club will be looking upwards once more.
"I feel truly proud of all we've done during my 22 months in charge. I would have liked to continue because I strongly believe we would have come through this period together and stronger but I will now use my time to reflect and improve, ready for my next challenge."
Monk's backroom staff of Pep Clotet, James Beattie and Kristian O'Leary left the club on Thursday, leaving first-team coach Alan Curtis to take training and he will be in charge for Saturday's game at Manchester City.
Guy Poyet has emerged as an early favourite with the bookmakers to replace Monk, while Sky sources understand the club are interested in Avram Grant.