FORMER Clarets player and coach Mark Yates has said he is ‘disappointed’ that his contract at League Two Cheltenham Town has been terminated.

The 44-year-old was the third longest serving manager in the top four English divisions, having been appointed at Whaddon Road in December 2009.

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He has now been replaced by former Torquay United boss Paul Buckle.

In a statement released yesterday, Yates said: “I was disappointed to have my contract terminated because I am confident I could have turned our league form around and we are still in the FA Cup.

“I am proud of my record at Cheltenham Town and I have had five great years as manager of the club, first keeping the club in the Football League and then building a team to reach the play-offs twice, including one final.

“We also had two great FA Cup runs, playing against Tottenham and Everton, as well as a League Cup tie at West Ham.

“To be the third longest serving manager in the top four divisions shows that we did something right.

“I’d like to thank all the players I have worked with over the years and the supporters, who have been brilliant.

“As one door closes, another one opens and I look forward to my next challenge ahead.

“Finally, I’d like to thank the chairman Paul Baker for giving me the opportunity to manage the club in the first place and I wish him and the club every success in the future.”