Maidstone United boss Andy Ford has resigned following a disappointing 1-0 defeat to fellow Ryman League Premier Division relegation rivals Croydon Athletic on Tuesday night.

Ford, who took charge of the Stones in October, was charged with the task of guiding the club away from the relegation zone, but he handed in his resignation after his side’s abject performance at Homelands.

The defeat was Maidstone’s 10th in the last 11 league games and left them rock bottom of the league.

United chief executive Bill Williams accepted Ford’s request following the final whistle and the club are now actively seeking a replacement. An emergency board meeting is due to be held at 10am on Wednesday morning. It is unclear who will take charge for Maidstone’s clash against Billericay Town on Saturday.

Mr Williams said: “It is with regret that Andy Ford has resigned. He came to me after the game and said 'That’s it I’m finished, I resign.' I asked him again, if he was sure this is what he wanted to do this and he said 'I’ve done all I can do.'

“The club as of now will be in the market place to replace Andy Ford. Terry Casey, myself and Oliver Ash gave our word that Andy will stay until the end of the season.

"When we brought Andy in we thought this would get us out of trouble and things haven’t worked out. Sometimes these things happen in football. Andy has worked really hard but it hasn’t worked out and it is always sad when a manager has to resign.”

Stones midfielder Jay Saunders, who played under Ford at Gravesend & Northfleet, was stunned by the news and says the players have to take some of the blame.

He said: “I’m shocked to hear the news. I’ve known him a long time and I know he is committed. Unfortunately it’s not worked out and I think myself and the players have to take some of the responsibility.”

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