Brian Cuthbert has stepped down as manager of the Cork senior football team after two years in charge.

This comes following the Rebel’s All Ireland Championship Round 4A qualifier defeat to Kildare last weekend.

Having taken defending All Ireland champions Kerry to a replay in the Munster final a qualifier against Kildare a week later was a bridge too far for Cuthbert’s side, and he has decided not to look for a further year in the job.

A statement from Cuthbert read: “ I have decided not to seek reappointment to the position of Cork senior football manager and am stepping down with immediate effect

“From being within a few seconds of being crowned Munster Champions to making our All Ireland Championship exit at the hands of Kildare at the weekend has been difficult for me, the players and backroom staff. The short period involved demonstrates the tight margins that exist between success and failure at inter county level.

“I would like to thank the players and all the backroom staff for their huge commitment over the past two years. I would also like to thank the Cork County Board for extending every support possible to myself and the team in the course of the League and Championship campaigns.”