GUISELEY AFC have today parted company with first team manager Andy Welsh.

The news comes following the Lions' latest defeat on Saturday, where they were edged 3-2 by Lancaster City at home.

It means Guiseley have lost their previous three league outings, and with the play-offs still in touching distance, the club felt it was the right time to relieve Welsh of his duties ahead of the final run-in.

Through their social media pages, the Lions commented: "Whilst we appreciate that coming in mid season with a settled squad was a difficult task, unfortunately we haven’t seen the desired improvements and momentum in the team’s performances and results as we approach the final stages of the season and felt a change was needed to give the squad the best chance of picking up as many points as possible in the last five games, whilst we look to continue to build into next season with a settled team.

"We thank Andy for his time and efforts with the club, leading us to the county cup semi finals and keeping the side within three points of the playoffs, including a notable double against Radcliffe."

Club captain Liam Tongue will lead the team as caretaker for the remainder of the season, with his assistant staff to be confirmed.