Rhys Tom has stepped down as goalkeeping coach at St Albans City, ending a four-year stay at the Clarence Park club.

His decision stems from a desire to spend more time with his family and will see Ian Allinson needing to replace a key figure in his backroom staff.

Tome took the chance to thank City for giving him the opportunity to coach at the National League South club and explain the reasons behind his departure from Clarence Park.

“I would like to wish all at St Albans City the best for the future,” Tom wrote on Twitter.

“I have decided not to continue my role as goalkeeper coach to enable me to spend more time with my family and enjoy their sporting achievements.”

Tom has played an important role in helping develop a number of goalkeepers during his time at the club, most recently helping Dean Snedker establish himself as key member of Allinson’s St Albans side.

He praised each of the stopper he has worked with throughout his time with the Saints and thanked the club for helping him settle quickly upon his arrival.

“I have had a wonderful four years with the club and felt welcome from day one,” he said.

“During my time I have been lucky enough to work with some great keepers in Joe Welch, Tom Coulton, James Russell and Dean Snedker.”

Having seen City finish just outside the play-off places last term, Tom is confident the Saints are capable of kicking on in the 2018/19 campaign.

He called on City supporters to give their full backing to Allinson and his players and says he will now enjoy the chance to join them on the Clarence Park terraces next season.

He said: “I would like to wish Ian and the team all the best for the future and urge the fans to get behind them.

“When Clarence Park is rocking it makes such a difference. I look forward to coming down and being part of the yellow and blue army when I can.”

Meanwhile, with the new season fast approaching, the draw for the Herts Senior Cup has been made.

St Albans will enter the competition at the quarter-final stage and have been handed an away day against Hereford Town on Monday, July 30.

The game kicks off at 7.30pm and will see City come against the Bostik League North Division side at Hertingfordbury Park.

Hertford Town finished 15th in the table last season after struggling for consistent form.