SALISBURY have announced that they have parted ways with director and manager Steve Claridge.

The news follows the Whites’ 4-2 win away at Tiverton on Wednesday night, with a brace from Antonio Diaz and further goals for Dan Fitchett and Darren Mullings the difference in North Devon.

Midweek victory placed Salisbury fifth in the Southern League Premier South, but a statement from the board cited poor performances in the FA Cup and FA Trophy as factors in the decision to change manager.

At the weekend, the Whites were dumped out of the FA Trophy at the first hurdle in heartbreaking fashion, with Truro winning the tie in the 90th minute.

Former Portsmouth and Millwall striker Claridge had been associated with Salisbury since 2014, serving as both director and manager since the club’s resurrection.

A statement on the club’s website read: “Salisbury FC has today parted company with director and manager, Steve Claridge.

“On behalf of everyone at Salisbury FC, the Club would like to place on record its gratitude to Steve during his time with the Club, firstly as one of the group of five that formed Salisbury FC at the end of 2014, and then as team manager, gaining 2 promotions. “Steve will rightly always have a place in Salisbury FC’s history.

“However, with the club no longer involved in either the FA Cup or the FA Trophy this season, it is important to look to the longer term and the ongoing development and success of the club.

“With this in mind, the appointment of a new manager to lead the club forward is seen as essential and we hope to make an announcement in the near future.”

Salisbury are next in action on Saturday, when they travel to North Leigh. So far this campaign, Salisbury have won six out of 10 league games, losing four times.