Departing Dover Athletic assistant manager Lee Flavin explains swift exit ahead of Whites’ National League South opener against Torquay United

There has been another u-turn on a decision to join Dover this summer - and their departing assistant hasn't held back!

Ex-Dagenham & Redbridge midfielder Lee Flavin, previously joint-manager of Sutton Common Rovers, only joined Whites earlier this month. But his exit has been revealed less than a week before they start their new National League South season.

In his short time with the Crabble club, Flavin explained the situation had already become unworkable for him.

He wrote on Twitter on Sunday morning: "I turned down a lot of Step 2 and 3 management opportunities this summer and decided to choose Dover.

"Unfortunately, from the first day, I knew it was a risk, considering where the club is at. The 3-4 weeks I’ve been here, it has been very different and it’s affected my mental health.

"Football is a challenge I’d never shy away from - but some things I can’t deal with and the conditions have become unworkable for me. Anything that affects you mentally isn’t worth it.

"I'm very embarrassed to be announced for five minutes and to be departing so soon. It's sad and hurts as I’d like to turn this ship around but, for my own mental state, this is important to me.

"I’d like to thank the fans and the important people who’s work that doesn’t go unnoticed in my eyes. Thanks @george__cory @TheRiverEnd1 @DebsHarrison118 @paulharrison118 @theWishyman80 @DoverAthletic for your kindness and your time you spent getting to know me."

He said he had helped Dover sign Nick Dembele, Olu Durojaiye and Michael Olarewaju while a deal to bring in Jamie Yila had been in the offing, adding "Thanks guys and good luck for the season."

Dover wrote in a statement: “It’s with great sadness that assistant manager @Lee_Flavin has had to step down