End of the line for boss Simon Lane as he departs Wingate & Finchley

SIMON LANE has left his roles as manager and director of football at Wingate & Finchley despite the club being just three points adrift of the Ryman Premier play-off places.

Lane, a former manager of Windsor & Eton and Maltese side Naxxar Lions, took over at the Blues in April, replacing David Norman.

They are currently eighth in the Ryman Premier and just three points off the top five with the club saying the decision for Lane to leave was not results based.

First team coach Daniel Nielsen will take charge of the side for Tuesday night’s trip to Enfield Town in the Alan Turvey Trophy quarter-finals.

A club statement read: “On Sunday, Simon Lane attended a meeting with the chairman and vice-chairman to discuss the season so far, and the outcome of the meeting was a mutual agreement for Simon to step down from his role at the club.

“Both parties agree that results are absolutely not a factor in this decision. However, a better way of working internally for both parties unfortunately could not be found, hence a parting of the ways was the only way forward.

“Simon would like to thank the players, staff and volunteers for their great efforts this season and wishes the club all the very best for the future.

“In return we would like to thank Simon for his efforts this season and we wish Simon all the best in his next role in football.”