Martin Ling: Torquay chairman says lack of enthusiasm led to sack

Torquay United chairman Thea Bristow says the decision to sack Martin Ling was because of the lack of enthusiasm under his leadership.

Bristow took over from Simon Baker at the head of the board last month and told Ling of his sacking a day after the club were saved from relegation.

Ling had been away from the role since January after a stress-related illness.

"The team needs motivation of a different kind from what Martin was bringing," she told BBC South West.

"The season wasn't going the way it should have been and the players were not enthusiastic."

Earlier this week Ling while Alan Knill, who had was brought in to replace him.

Ling says he was assured by the club that his job was safe and he was preparing to return to Torquay earlier this month.

When asked if that was the case and why the club had changed their mind, Bristow refused to answer.

Ling was sacked due to "footballing reasons" and Bristow said those reasons went back to his time in charge of the club.

"New blood was needed," she said. "It was prior to the end of January."

Ling's assistant Shaun Taylor is still at the club, but new boss Knill says he is hoping to bring Chris Brass to Plainmoor to help coach the side.

"I've spoken to Brassy and at the moment he's thinking about the offer," Knill said.

"As regards to Shaun, we haven't decided on what the backroom staff is going to be, but I've enjoyed working with him and we'll see what happens."