Newport County's furious board have reacted to the side's shameful FA Cup exit at Chippenham on Saturday by last night dismissing three players and slapping hothead striker Cortez Belle on the transfer list.

The non-contracted trio of Antonio Corbisiero, Wayne O'Sullivan and Dominic Reece have all been immediately released and Belle, after earning his second red card of the season for an act of petulance, has been heavily fined and put up for sale.

County chairman Chris Blight said: "We may be in the process of looking for a new manager but the board feel that we must take action after the type of abysmal performance that we saw on Saturday.

"That was painful to watch and many people have said that it was the worst performance by a Newport County team that they have seen in years, if not ever.

"We cannot allow it when supporters go all the way to game to watch them get stuffed in that manner.

"The board are not frightened to be decisive, we removed a manager when it became clear that things were not happening, and while some people might think that it would be up to the new manager to make these types of decisions, we feel that it would be inevitable that he would reach the same conclusions."

The transfer-listing of Belle is yet another twist in an turbulent opening quarter of the season.

His signing towards the end of last term was like the return of the prodigal son.

But just two goals in 16 games and more importantly two sendings off this season already has pushed the board over the edge.

"Cortez Belle is a talented player but if he wants to have any part in the future of this club, he has to get his act together," Blight said.

"That is two red cards already this season and with three at Chester last season as well, it is clear that he has to get his head straight.

"He has been substantially fined and placed on the transfer list. We are not going to put up with a lack of discipline and that also goes for players who are not taking playing at this level seriously and are out of shape or overweight."

Meanwhile the search for a new boss continues and the club aim to have a someone in place in the next 10-12 days.

Director Colin Everett said: "Glyn Jones will be in charge for the Eastbourne game this Saturday and then there is a two week break until we face Yeading.

"We are aiming to get the Eastbourne game out of the way and hopefully have a manager installed with plenty of time before our next match.

"We are already at the stage of reducing the long list to a short list and preparing to interview candidates."

He added: "The list is a combination of people who we have approached and others who has applied to the club."