Martin Allen expressed his “deep disappointment” at being sacked as manager of Gillingham.

Allen was axed on Sunday and released a statement through the League Managers’ Association on Tuesday morning.

He led the Gills to the League 2 title six months ago and was disappointed to see his tenure cut short this season.

Allen said: “It goes without saying that I am deeply disappointed to have been relieved of my managerial duties at Gillingham, having enjoyed some fantastic results in my 16 months in charge.

“I leave Gillingham with some fantastic memories and I am extremely proud to have guided the club to the League Two title in that time, their first in nearly 50 years.

“On a personal note I was extremely honoured to have been voted by my peers as the League Two Manager of the Year following the success we all enjoyed.

“Any club who achieves promotion will face challenges moving up a level so it is with regret that I have been dismissed after just six league losses this season.”

Allen’s side had put a temporary half to a bad start, winning back-to-back games against Crewe and MK Dons, before losing again at Shrewsbury on Saturday.

“I was extremely confident that we would meet our league targets this campaign,” said Allen.

“At this stage I would like to wish the players the very best for the rest of the season and I thank them for the hard work they have put in and the great attitude they have shown throughout my time in charge.

“I would also like to thank the staff at the club, it has been a pleasure to work with you, and of course I must pay tribute to the fantastic supporters of Gillingham with whom I have enjoyed a truly wonderful relationship.”