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Kevin Nolan dismissed as Leyton Orient boss, asked to remain as player

Leyton Orient have confirmed that Kevin Nolan has been relieved of his managerial duties, although they want him to remain at the club as a player.

The 33-year-old former Bolton, Newcastle and West Ham midfielder was in charge at Brisbane Road for just 15 games after taking over as player-manager in January.

His assistant Andy Hessenthaler will take charge when the O's, who currently sit 11th in League Two, face Dagenham & Redbridge on Saturday.

Orient CEO Alessandro Angelieri said in a statement: "Everyone at the club is fighting hard to make sure we reach the playoffs this season. Whilst that aim remains within reach, we have decided that Kevin should focus entirely on his playing contribution until the end of the season.

"We believe that Kevin will be able to make a bigger impact on the team without the distraction of managerial duties. Andy Hessenthaler, who has been assisting Kevin over the past few months, will take charge of the first team in the interim.''

Nolan is the sixth managerial casualty in less than two years since Francesco Becchetti took over the club.

The Italian owner has previously overseen the departures of Russell Slade, Kevin Nugent, Mauro Milanese, Fabio Liverani and Ian Hendon, who was axed in January.

Nolan's managerial career began promisingly after five wins in his first seven games as the O's, relegated from League One last season, climbed into the League Two playoff spots.

But they have taken just one point from their last four games and slipped to 11th after Saturday's 3-0 defeat at Barnet.