Abingdon Town chairman Tom Larman has denied rumours of unrest following the departure of manager Kevin Lloyd, who was sacked amid rumour and innuendo last week, writes MICHAEL KNOX.

The club announced that Lloyd, who had already twice reportedly left in a row over playing budgets, had been relieved his duties "in the best interests of the club".

Former Town manager Keith Stopps has been appointed in his place and will be in charge for Saturday's FA Vase tie at Sussex side Blackfield & Langley.

Assistant manager Thomas Larman junior and players Pete Culley and Craig Antcliffe looked after the side last Saturday as they crashed 7-0 at Shrivenham.

After that game, there were reports of a threatened walk-out by the players.

A person purporting to be Antcliffe contacted the Oxford Mail, who reported him (Sept 27) saying: "We're really peeved Kevin's been sacked. Many of the players are only here because of Kevin and I wouldn't be surprised if ten players left, if things don't change."

The object of these comments was Larman senior.

However, Antcliffe strongly denied these remarks were made by him.

He said: "In fact I feel just the opposite, having known Tom and Thomas for a long time. I am great friends with them."

Larman, himself, said he thought he knew who was responsible for issuing the rumours of unrest, which were totally untrue.

"In fact, if Lloyd had not been sacked, I know of several players who would have left," said the chairman.

"Because of all the uncertainty, we are better off without him. We've now got a bit of stability at the club."

Lloyd said: "I did not quit twice, I resigned once due to the breaking of promises made by the chairman regarding the budget.

"Everything seemed fine over the past four games and I was shocked to receive a letter, pushed through my front door on Friday, dated on the Wednesday, stating that my position was to be terminated.

"I would like it to be known that my commitment was with Abingdon Town and I had no intention of changing clubs."