Steve Fletcher quits as Bournemouth assistant manager

Fletcher has scored 120 goals in 704 games for Bournemouth

Steve Fletcher has quit his position as Bournemouth assistant manager, although he will continue to play for the club.

Fletcher was appointed assistant manager last season when boss Eddie Howe and coach Jason Tindall left to join Burnley in January.

But the 39-year-old will continue to be part of Lee Bradbury's playing squad, having appeared 13 times this season.

"It wasn't an easy decision because I've really enjoyed the role and love the club," said Fletcher.

The Cherries say they will now look to appoint a new assistant manager from outside of the club.

"I just feel it would be more beneficial for the team and the club if I return to my role as a player for the remainder of my contract," added Fletcher.

"The door has been left open for me to stay at the club as a coach in a development role but for the forseeable future I'll be returning to playing.

"This decision hasn't been made overnight but we all think it will be the best for the team.

"The club is going in the right direction. I still think I have a lot to offer as a player and it is up to me to impress Lee in training now.

"I have loved my time as a coach here, I have experienced some amazing highs and am excited about the future here.

"My focus is now on helping push the club up the table and continuing the success of the last few years."

The striker was a key member of the squad that reached the League One play-offs last season.

He has played 704 times for the Cherries, in two spells, but was largely restricted to substitute appearances last season, scoring seven goals.

"We would like to thank Steve for the hard work he has put in as assistant manager," said Bournemouth chairman Eddie Mitchell.

"He remains an important and popular member of the squad, and will undoubtedly have an important part to play in the future development of the club.

"Fletch is a popular person at the club and we want to use that in the best way.

"There's various aspects of the club that will need heading and I think a development group would be a great opportunity for him to secure his long-term future at the club."