FORMER Worcester City striker Lee Hughes is set take his first steps into football management after AFC Telford United confirmed his departure.

The 40-year-old frontman will not be at Telford next season and Bucks boss Rob Smith said he would be taking a “managerial role at another club”.

The Blue and Whites are understood to be close to announcing a new manager after being relegated from Vanarama National League North.

Hughes has previously expressed his interest in the vacancy at City when Carl Heeley ended his seven-year reign as manager in late January.

But ex-West Bromwich Albion and Coventry City star soon left the Blue and Whites to join relegation rivals Telford in February.

During his time at Worcester, Hughes scored 33 goals in 57 appearances and finished last season as their top goal-scorer.

An AFC Telford United statement read: “AFC Telford United can confirm Lee Hughes will not be staying on at the club for next season.

“Hughes confirmed to Bucks boss Rob Smith that he will be taking a managerial role at another club next season and won't be staying on at AFC Telford United for another year.

“Everyone at the club would like to thank Lee for all his efforts in securing the clubs National League North status.

“We wish him all the very best in his next chapter in his career.”