Haverfordwest County have released a statement on Facebook (Thursday evening) saying that Chris O’Sullivan has stepped down as assistant manager.

Sully helped the Bluebirds to a fourth place finish in Welsh League Division One last season, and he was heavily involved in their terrific Welsh Cup quarter final and League Cup semi-final runs.

He has worked meticulously alongside Sean Cresser, with Micky Ellis also involved when required.

Sully was instrumental in introducing a lot of former Pembrokeshire League based players to take part at the higher level, goalkeeper James Gwilt, Rhys Dalling and Kieran O’Brien came from the 2016 treble winners Goodwick United, Ashley Bevan and Matthew Broome from Hakin United, Lee Hudgell returned to the Meadow from Merlins Bridge.

That was the real success story, getting locals to dedicate themselves and prove they are good enough to play for Haverfordwest County at Welsh League level!

It’s a shame O’Sullivan won’t be at able to continue his commitment and build on last season’s improvement at the club, but as always he’s been honest with club chairman David Hughes.

“I sat down with David and explained I’m opening a new gym and I can’t give the club the time that is required to run this brilliant club,” said O’Sullivan.

“I’ve left on good terms and have always given 100% to the club both as a player and as assistant manager.”

David Hughes said via club statement: “I was initially shocked to hear of Chris’s decision but having listened to his explanation; I have no doubt that he has made the correct one.

“He has been involved for many years as a talented and extremely competitive player and over the last twelve months he and Sean Cresser have been instrumental in implementing the club’s vision of involving a large percentage of local talent into the squad.

"Undoubtedly, it was the local knowledge and respect that Chris had that made a great impact when their first squad was assembled. The transition was carried out with great success – a fourth place league finish and strong cup runs in all competitions are testimony to the great work that was done by Chris and Sean.

“Everyone at the club would like to wish Chris every success in his exciting new business venture and thank him sincerely for his great service over a decade or so.”