Martin Hayes paid the price for Dover Athletic's disappointing start to the Blue Square South season today when he was released from his contract.

The former Arsenal midfielder took over as Whites manager at the end of the 2009-10 season following Andy Hessenthaler's move to Gillingham and Ian Hendon's brief period in charge.

Dover finished just outside the play-off positions last season but Hayes brought in several new players during the close season as he attempted to stamp his mark on the team following Hessenthaler's successful period in charge.

But after winning their opening two games 4-0 Dover have won just one of the next nine and slipped to 12th place in the table after Saturday's 1-1 home draw with Havant & Waterlooville.

The club said in a statement: "Dover Athletic have today confirmed that Martin Hayes has been released from his contract by the club, following a difficult and disappointing start to the season.

"The club would like to place on the record it's thanks to Martin for his efforts while at the club and wish him the best of luck for the future."

This Saturday they are at home to Carshalton in the FA Cup, and Hayes will be best remembered for leading the Whites to the third round of last season's competition before they were knocked out by Huddersfield.