Director of football Erdem Konyar has issued a heartfelt message after Crawley Town parted company with him, head coach Colin Kazim-Richards and assistant coach Julian Gray.

Konyar has ended his second spell at Broadfield at the same time Kazim-Richards and Gray have gone – following the Reds’ woeful start to the League Two season.

Posting on X, Konyar – who had returned to the club last November – wrote: “To the Crawley Town family, I attended my first Crawley match on 12 December 2015 against Dagenham.

"Nearly eight years later of service it has been an absolute honour and privilege to work for the badge I love. This will be the only badge I actively serve in football.

placeholder image — Erdem Konyar has left Crawley Town

"So many great memories will live with me forever.

"Unfortunately this season has not been good enough. I apologise to the Crawley family and take full responsibility for today’s result.

"I firmly believe in these lads and know they will turn things around.

"The squad has genuine quality but things have not gone our way. We cannot dwell on our luck, we must put it right against Tranmere.

"To all the supporters: thank you for your incredible support, belief and encouragement. It means more than you know.

"The club is in excellent hands with an outstanding group working behind the scenes. I am grateful to the ownership for the trust and opportunity they gave me to serve this badge.

"This is the final chapter of my time in club football. It has been an honour to serve on the front line and I am truly sorry things have not gone as we hoped. Noli Cedere.”

A number of fans responded to his message by wishing him well for the future.

Earlier a number of fans took to social media to give their verdict on Kazim-Richards’ sacking, with the general view that it was the right decision and the next appointment was absolutely vital.

Town have now appointed ex-Leeds and Sheffield United boss Kevin Blackwell as interim manager while they search for a permanent appointment.