Nigel Deeley revealed to The Chronicle his sadness after he was sacked from his managing role at Witton Albion.

In an honest interview, Deeley accepted responsibility for the club's current plight in the UniBond Premier after nine consecutive defeats put Witton into the bottom four.

Deeley expressed his sincere thanks to those he worked with and paid tribute to the supporters who he feels he has let down.

He said: "First and foremost I want to express my extreme disappointment. I was proud and privileged to manage the club but the results were not good enough and I take full and sole responsibility for that and I respect and understand the decision taken by the club.

"I would like to thank Mike Harris who gave his backing to me during difficult times, he supported me and gave me his best.

"I want to thank all the players for their hard work and endeavour, especially Brian Pritchard, Rod and Ben Thornley and Dan Skelton.

"I also want to give special thanks to my staff – Andy Nelson, Dave Millington, Barry Taylor, Ed Robinson and John Yates – as they gave me every ounce of their energy.

"I just want to add that it fills me with deep sadness and regret that I did not achieve what I wanted to for our fantastic supporters. I wish the club every success in the future."