Dean Barker has resigned as Kings Langley manager only four months after taking charge, claiming his position has become “completely untenable”.

Barker had been set to lead the Premier League South Central side in their FA Cup second qualifying round tie against Folkestone Invicta on Saturday, but announced his decision in a statement posted on social media last night.

The former Northwood boss left his role at Welwyn Garden City to take over at Gaywood Park in June following the departure of Steve Conroy.

Pitch renovation works meant Kings had to play all their pre-season and their first five league matches away from home. Despite this, Barker’s side enjoyed a bright start to the campaign, but back-to-back losses in their last two fixtures have left them 16th in the table.

Barker said his decision to stand down had been taken with “a very heavy heart” and “after considerable deliberation”.

He stated: “Following an approach to my former club, I met with the directors of Kings Langley FC and I was proud to accept the opportunity of managing this great club and building on the achievements of my managerial predecessors.

“During our discussions the committee and I agreed and committed to a number of key objectives for the season ahead.

“From the club’s side the expectation was to secure step 3 league status for the season ahead and to do this by operating within the stated budget limits.

“From my side, I expected the universal support of those that appointed me and that I would be given the opportunity to manage without restraint and interference.

“Having now been at the club for just over 4 months, it has become increasingly apparent that my expectations would not be realised and as such my position has become completely untenable.”

Barker added: “I want to make a special mention of the commitment shown by the players and staff to an away schedule of 17 away games so far this season (including pre-season), this is an incredible effort and one I personally thank them for.”

He concluded: “The supporters, you are amazing, and you are what makes this club what it is, players and managers will come and go but you are all the soul and heartbeat of this great football club.

“I will now reflect and look forward to my next challenge, in the meantime I wish the club and supporters well for the future.”

Barker’s resignation has been “reluctantly accepted” by Kings, who released a statement this morning.

It reads: “Dean joined the club under challenging circumstances with the club’s entire pre-season and early league fixtures all played away from home. Dean showed exceptional resolve to overcome these difficulties to lead the team to a positive start to the season.

“The club recognise and acknowledge the unrelenting work ethic and commitment Dean has displayed during his tenure and would like to put on record their appreciation of the contribution he has made to Kings Langley Football Club in a short space of time.

“The club wish him all the very best in his future career.”

The Watford Observer has been told current Kings coach Ryan Jackett will be in charge for Saturday's FA Cup tie and Tuesday's league match against Hitchin Town.