ALEX Pike has been sacked by Gosport Borough - for the second time this season.

Chairman Iain McInnes has today confirmed that Pike, who missed Tuesday’s 2-1 defeat at Bishops Stortford for personal reasons, “will not be returning to the club as manager."

Pike was initially relieved of his duties by interim chairman Iain Sellstrom in September.

McInnes reappointed him in December, but Pike – the man who led Borough from the Wessex League to the Conference South in a hugely successful first spell in charge before financial problems hit – has failed to win any of his 14 league games since returning.

The struggling club are rock-bottom of the Evo-Stik South Premier with one to go down and have a four-point gap to close on relegation rivals Dunstable Town.

A statement released by McInnes this morning explained: “Alex Pike and I agreed to take some ‘time out’ over the deliberations on his continuation in the role of manager.

“As reported, Alex did have some family issues that needed his personal and acknowledged attention, as a private matter.

“Now I can confirm that Alex will not be returning to the club as manager and that much has been agreed and accepted.

“Any ongoing matters regarding that arrangement will be strictly a matter between myself the board and Alex as appropriate.

“There will be no further statement from anyone at the club as that aspect of the matter is now confidential and closed.

“On a personal level I’m very comfortable to incur any criticism and constructive commentary on the situation as befits my role as chairman.

“Alex is Gosport born, bred and committed. I will not dwell on history as so many prefer to do, other than to say his track record stands comparison with any if not all managers at this level and amongst the criticism he faced some do and most should remember that fact.

“Life becomes easier when you learn to accept the apology you perhaps feel you never got.

“In my time there was nothing but willingness to turn things around and, in fairness, as he would freely admit I hope, was given fair support to do so.

“It hasn’t worked, it may have done, I guess it’s for us all to come to our conclusion as did the board. Now I ask you to accept what is, let go of what was and have faith in us all moving forward together.”

"For now Rowan Vine, Louis Bell, aided by Jay Keating, will take first-team responsibilities. Any change in that position will be notified as when and if it happens.

"Now we need points more than pontification so let’s get on with it shall we.

You (the fans) play an important part in that. Thanks for your support. "

Gosport host Redditch United on Saturday (3pm).