FOREST GREEN chairman Dale Vince has reacted after the club announced that the manager was leaving. 

"I’m grateful to Ian for all his hard work this season, it’s definitely not been easy, " said Mr Vince.

Stroud News and Journal:

"Our first season in League One was always going to be a challenge in itself but it’s been been made more difficult by a number of factors, with their roots in last summer. 

"I believe in Ian as a coach, but circumstances have led us to this place. 

"We’ve recruited strongly in the January window, player wise - now we need to recruit a new head coach - to give ourselves the best chance or staying in this league.’

Outgoing manager Ian Burchnall has thanked the chairman for this opportunity, wishing the club all the best. 

Stroud News and Journal:

"I want to thank Dale for giving me the opportunity to manage in the Football League," said Mr Burchnall.

"The challenge was greater than I could have thought coming in.

"I have learnt a lot though.

"For the fans, I am sorry that I couldn’t make it work and that they didn’t see the best of my team.

"I hope for them the team turns it around.

"They deserve a team in League One.

"My extended thanks to the players, staff and everyone at the club for their efforts – I wish you all the best for the future."