Naxxar Lions 3-1 defeat to Gżira United on Friday night has cost Stuart Watkiss his job as coach of the newly-promoted side after he stepped from his post, the Premier League side announced yesterday.

"Naxxar Lions Football Club would like to confirm the resignation of their head coach Stuart Watkiss," a club statement said.

"Mr Watkiss has resigned due to personal reasons from his position as Head Coach of Naxxar Lions Football Club.

"Mr Watkiss came to the club and quickly established a firm team base during his short stint both on the field and off the field.

"The Management of NLFC would like to thank Mr. Watkiss for his hard work and endeavour whilst at the club and wish him well."

The Lions have made no mention on who could replace Watkiss but sources told Times of Malta that Oliver Spiteri is set to be handed the job.

Spiteri has been without a club since the end of last season after he stepped down as coach of Balzan.

Friday's defeat against Gżira United was the third successive defeat for the Lions and leaves them third from bottom with six points after 11 matches.

Sign up to our free newsletters

Get the best updates straight to your inbox:
Please select at least one mailing list.

You can unsubscribe at any time by clicking the link in the footer of our emails. We use Mailchimp as our marketing platform. By subscribing, you acknowledge that your information will be transferred to Mailchimp for processing.