Kieran Sullivan says he plans to take a break from football after he resigned as Banbury United manager.

Sullivan, who was appointed at the start of last season, resigned as boss of the British Gas Business Southern League Premier Division strugglers following Saturday’s 5-0 home thrashing by Chippenham Town.

“It was a case of deciding that enough was enough and I felt that the job needed a fresh approach,” said former Banbury skipper Sullivan, who made more than 550 appearances for the Puritans as a player.

“It was time to go. Myself and the chairman (Paul Jones) have had a few discussions over the past three months after various bad results and it got to the point where I had just had enough.

“I wanted to be fair to the players. Often when a new manager takes over there is a fresh impetus. And hopefuly that’s what will happen.

“This is my first go at it (football management) and it was a baptism of fire for me. It’s not put me off and I would like to be involved in football in some capacity. I’ve been involved in the game since 1985.

“I think I’ll probably take a break from football. I’ll maybe watch a few Banbury games, but I’m aiming to keep out of the spotlight and then see what happens.”

Sullivan, 39, who took over from Kevin Brock as boss after he quit over the playing budget, said money had not been behind his decision to leave.

“I knew what the budget was when I took over and I had to deal with it,” he added. “I think I left them in good shape, not in terms of the league position, but the squad is good enough. But they need to perform on a regular basis.

“Inconsistency was the main problem – we’d go from the sublime, when we beat Halesowen and Brackley at home, to the ridiculous when we lost against Chippenham. It was frustrating for me and the players.

“It was a steep learning curve and I am grateful to the club for giving me the opportunity. We did well last season, but I’m sorry I couldn’t give the supporters a better season this time around.

“I wish them all the best and want them to stay in the Premier Division. Whoever takes over will have my 100 per cent support.

“Hopefully this hasn’t put me off management. I know people that have never gone back to football and others who have.

“Football is a bug and it’s difficult to let go, but at the moment I’m in no hurry to get back into it.”

Interim chairman Jones, who with Pete Woodland took charge on a temporary basis for Tuesday’s trip to Halesowen, said: “We are speaking to a number of candidates and we are hoping to make an announcement soon.

“All being well they will be in place for Saturday’s game at Mangotsfield.”