Gillingham Football Club have announced that manager Steve Lovell has left his position with immediate effect.

Following discussions between Lovell and Chairman Paul Scally, it was decided the manager was to be relieved of his duties after just 18 months in charge at Priestfield.

The former Gillingham striker had seen the side to safety with a point at Bradford City on Easter Monday, ensuring another season in League One, however leaves the club.

His departure will mean Mark Patterson will take charge of the side for the final home league fixture of the campaign against Charlton Athletic on Saturday.

Patterson will also be in charge for the final game of the season away to Blackpool.

Two names already linked with the vacant position are Steve Evans and former Maidstone United manager Jay Saunders.

In a club statement released by the club, it states:

“The Club would like to thank Steve for his efforts with the team over the past 18 months and wish him well for the future.”

“There will be no further comment at this stage.”