Players were shellshocked by Tony Cottee's sudden departure as Barnet FC's player-manager on Friday morning despite widespread rumours of his imminent exit.

Striker Darren Currie told the Times Group: "It is a hell of a shock, we were led to believe he was unwell.

"I didn't think it would come to this. We have lost not only a manager, but someone who scored goals for us."

He added: "We need to get as many points to stay up and this season has really got to be forgotten."

The club issued a statement saying Cottee's departure after just four months was by mutual consent.

Cottee said: "With the current precarious situation, the chairman and I agree it is best that the team is placed in the hands of a man with more experience in third division football.

"I would like to take this opportunity of thanking the team and staff for all their support and wish them every success for the future."

The more experienced man at the helm will be current director of football John Still, who will resume his previous post of first team manager until the end of the season.

"We are all very disappointed with events. We need everyone to pull together to get us through to the end of the season," he told the Times Group.

After a run of poor results, including ten straight away defeats which have left Barnet just five points above the bottom of the table, speculation over Cottee's future had this week reached fever pitch. His non-appearance in the last two matches, against Southend on Saturday and Brighton on Wednesday, was blamed on flu.

Club chairman Tony Kleanthous praised Cottee Britain's first £2million footballer for his contribution to the Bees.

He said: "Tony has brought a sparkle to the club and we are sad to see him go. I firmly believe Tony will become a top manager in the game and I wanted him to do it for us.

"Everyone at Barnet FC wishes him the best of luck for the future. Tony will always be welcome at Underhill."