DEFEAT against Dr Martens Western strugglers Swindon Supermarine on Saturday proved the final straw for Redditch player-manager Nicky Cross this week.

After a meeting with chairman Rod Laight on Monday afternoon the former West Brom ace parted with the club by mutual consent.

The Reds chairman said: "Following discussions between myself and team coach Nicky Cross he issued the following statement:

'I have decided to stand down as coach. I am aware of the club's position in the league and given time perhaps things could have been improved.' "

United chairman Laight added: "It's a decision made mutually between the board and Nicky Cross, he may remain as part of the playing squad but that will be decided over the next few days.

"Now we are going to advertise for a manager with at least two years' experience who can guarantee the Reds will be out of the relegation zone by the New Year."

Player-assistant manager Gary Hackett has also left the club.

Paul West has been appointed caretaker manager for the League Cup trip to Stourport tonight and the league game at Shepshed on Saturday.

See Wednesday's Advertiser for more details.