HAMPSHIRE Premier League outfit QK Southampton have launched the search for a new manager following Mark Sainsbury’s resignation.

Former Downton boss Nigel Green has taken over on a caretaker basis for the rest of the season, assisted by Dean Phillips.

Chairman Roy Kingdon commented: ‘’All of us at QK Southampton would like to thank Mark for his good work over the last four years and we wish him well for the future.

“I am pleased to have appointed Nigel Green as caretaker manager for the remainder of the season.

“We are keen to talk to any candidates keen on the permanent job as we aim for promotion next season.’’

Caretaker boss Green - also a former Whitchurch United and Romsey Town man - commented: ‘’ I am pleased to come in as caretaker boss to see out the season.

“This is a very good club with potential to progress.

I am looking forward to meeting the players and finishing the season strongly.”

QK are currently 12th in the table with games in hand over the majority of teams.

Anyone interested in the permanent position of first-team boss can call chairman Roy Kingdon on 07876 115096 or email club secretary Don Campbell at djcampbell1972@gmail.com

Last Thursday QK Reserves came out on top in the second semi-final of the New Forest Care HPL Combination Cup against Winchester Castle Reserves at AFC Stoneham.

Toby Rochford gave them a first-half lead, only for Ben Wakefield to level matters for Castle on 79 minutes.

The tie went to penalties and it was QK who held their nerve to win 3-2 and book a place in the final against Overton United Reserves.