JAMES Gill admits his dismissal as Silsden boss came as "a massive shock".

The Cobbydalers stalwart was replaced by assistant Danny Forrest just days after his side had won 8-2 at Premier Division side New Mills in the Macron League Cup.

Five straight Hallmark Security League defeats prior to that, leaving Silsden 14th in Division One, cost Gill his job – but he felt the decision was harsh and said it had come out of the blue.

Gill explained: "It was a massive surprise. There had only been positive things coming out of the committee. It's a huge shock and a massive disappointment."

Having lost their top-flight status for the first time since 2005 after relegation last season, Silsden were hoping to be challenging for promotion. After 15 games, the Keighley Road side are 14 points off a top-six play-off place.

Yet Gill defended his record and said: "We started off quite average when we were finding our feet. Then we went on a run of six games without defeat. We had some big wins and were the top scorers in the league.

"Five defeats on the bounce knocked us back but in that time we were making new signings and had a few big injuries. There were a lot of factors why it didn't happen in that run.

"We then beat a team from a higher division 8-2 and they had been having some good results at the time.

"Things seemed to be going well, though the league position could have been higher. It was going the right way on the pitch and off it. The news came as a massive shock."

Gill brought former Bantams striker Forrest from Barnoldswick to Silsden as his assistant after taking over the reins back in February. He believes his former number two can be successful but feels upset at the way he was replaced.

Gill said: "I've a thick enough skin to know this can happen in football – but the way it has been handled could have been a lot better. I know Danny wants to be a number one and I wish him all the best."

The former Cobbydalers chief intends to return to management, though has not ruled out a spell with a club as a player.

"I enjoyed having a weekend off with my family and I might have some time out in the run-up to Christmas," he said.

"I've already had some offers and I would like to get back as a number one or maybe play for a bit. I have kept myself fit and can still play at this level."