AXED boss Darren Byfield says expectation levels at Redditch United were unrealistic compared to the budget he had to work with.

The manager was given the boot just moments after United had fought back to draw 2-2 at home against St Neots last Saturday.

However, Byfield believes he'd still have guided the Reds to a play-off spot this campaign - a feat he says would have been an over achievement compared to the resources he had at his disposal at the Trico.

He said: "It's really disappointing. Anyone that comes and watches us knows we play some really good football.

"We started well and that raised expectations. People started to think we could win the league and perhaps I'm a victim of that now.

"The fact of the matter is that the budget we were working with wasn't enough to do that.

"We probably shouldn't be near the play-offs with the budget either. We were where we were because of the recruitment we managed and the football we played.

"Teams like Hereford, Slough and Kings Lynn all have far superior budgets than we have.

"I still believe we'd have got into the play-offs this season, especially when you consider the results we have picked up against some of the top sides.

"There are some big teams in this league now with some big budgets and we would have overachieved if we'd have managed that.

"I'll have a break now and see what comes next.

"At the next interview I have, I'll definitely be asking the chairman more questions about the budget and what they expect us to achieve with that.

"Hopefully the next job I take will be the right place with a realistic chairman.

"To be honest, it's a weight off my shoulders. I've been juggling a lot of things and there have been a few issues I don't need to worry about anymore, like sorting out a physio or the fact we couldn't train on our own pitch."

A club statement thanked Byfield for his professionalism and dedication but said results had fallen below expectations.

It also stated that the board believes a change in leadership is necessary to fulfil the ambition of challenging for promotion this season.

Redditch United Chairman Chris Swan said: “On behalf of the Redditch United board, I would like to place on record my thanks to Darren for his tremendous hard work and commitment during his time with the club.

“He has made a valuable contribution to the club and I wish him the best of luck for the future.”

Club captain Danny Jackman has been placed in temporary charge until a successor has been appointed.

United will go to Weymouth this Saturday before the Boxing Day visit of Stratford Town (3pm kick-off).