Assistant manager Harry Wheeler has left St Albans City with immediate effect as boss Ian Allinson re-jigs his management structure while, on the playing side, goalkeeper Joe Welch has been let go.

Allinson announced the changes this week as he plans for another season in National League South.

The Saints avoided relegation on the final day of last season with a 4-0 win over Dartford at Clarence Park.

But there is a big change in the management structure with Wheeler’s departure.

Wheeler said: “We worked well together but you know in football that people like to bring their own people on. I wish them well and if they can bring in a player coach it saves on the budget.”

Allinson’s son Lee will step up to become assistant boss but he will continue his playing duties as well, while the club will also appoint a player coach.

Wheeler joined the club in December 2012 as head coach. He then fulfilled the role of caretaker manager three years later following the departure of James Gray and Graham Golds.

Ian Allinson said: “I would like to thank Harry for all his hard work since I have been here, he has given a lot to this club and certainly has a fantastic career ahead of him. It was difficult to say goodbye to him because he has been a tremendous stalwart for this football club, however, at this time I just wish to make some changes with regards to my backroom staff.”

Goalkeeper Welch is also leaving after not being offered a new deal.

Allinson said: “It was a tough decision. He was outstanding in the last few weeks but it is a route that I have decided to go down. He was disappointed but I think he understands.”

On-loan winger Harry Anderson has returned to Peterborough United.