Embattled Illawarra Premier League heavyweights Port Kembla confirmed yesterday they had sacked coach John Fleming in the wake of the club's miserable start to 2009.The club committee voted to release Fleming (pictured), who had been in charge at Wetherall Park since 2006, after just two wins and a draw from eight games to open the season.Not even a stirring, come-from-behind 3-2 win over South Coast United on Sunday was enough to save Fleming's job.Port Kembla are expected to announce a caretaker coach today. Secretary Maria Cazolli was reluctant to reveal who the committee had in mind, but the Mercury understands the successful candidate will come from within the playing group.''We have parted ways with John. He was told after Port Kembla's committee decided yesterday,'' Cazolli said.''There will be a caretaker appointed (today).''Fleming guided the black-and-whites to place in the league and grand final last year and the Bampton Cup in 2007. Although Fleming's fate has been sealed, mystery surrounds the future of long-time Port Kembla president Emilio Salucci amid rumours he had walked out in response to the coach's sacking.Salucci didn't return the Mercury's calls yesterday, but Cazolli said she had not received a formal resignation.''I have not received any formal notification,'' she said.Cazolli confirmed she and another committee member contacted Salucci yesterday and were hopeful of bringing him back into the fold.