Bromley have sacked long-serving manager Neil Smith despite sitting in the National League play-off places.

Smith took charge of 225 games during five years as manager at Bromley but his team were beaten 3-1 on Tuesday night by leaders Sutton United.

Chairman Robin Stanton-Gleaves issued a statement on Thursday following Smith’s departure.

He said: “This has been a difficult decision to make and one that has not been taken lightly. Having continued to review First Team performances and developments over an extended period of time, I now believe a change in leadership is required for us to progress further on our journey.”

“Neil has undoubtedly played an integral part in pushing the Club forward both on and off the pitch. He has given Academy scholars First Team opportunities and his work within our community on bringing players and supporters closer together has been invaluable. I know supporters will never forget him guiding us to an appearance at Wembley Stadium for the first time since 1949, in an FA Trophy Final.”

“He has had my full respect and support during my Chairmanship and I’d like to take this opportunity on behalf of everyone at Bromley Football Club to place on record our sincere thanks to Neil for all the work he has done during his near decade with the Club and wish him all the very best for the future.”

Prior to taking over as manager, in February 2016, Smith - who as a player made over 200 appearances for Gillingham - was assistant for four years at Hayes Lane.

Bromley say they will begin the search for a new manager immediately and look to make an appointment with a view to having a new manager in place in a timely manner.

They travel to fellow play-off hopefuls Wrexham on Saturday.

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