PHIL Parkinson says he left Wanderers with “a heavy heart” but hopes to see the club thrive again in the future.

After his resignation was accepted by the club on Thursday, the 51-year-old has issued an official statement via the League Manager’s Association.

Parkinson managed Wanderers for 156 games in all competitions and helped keep the club stable through arguably the most chaotic time in its history.

Along with assistant boss Steve Parkin, Parkinson led Bolton to promotion in 2016/17 and then managed to keep the club in the Championship despite being unable to spend a single penny in the transfer market.

“It has been an honour to represent Bolton Wanderers Football Club over the past three years and it was with a heavy heart that I made the decision to leave. Despite the testing times for all involved, I am proud of the efforts of everyone who has fought for the integrity and survival of this historic club,” he said.

“Despite the various challenges we faced, I will always reflect on my time here with fondness. Especially our memorable promotion season in 2016/17, in which we became the first club to achieve a promotion under a transfer embargo, and the following season, as we retained our status as a Championship club.

“My staff and I were keen to continue to lead the club through the summer and prepare the squad for the new season whilst the possible take-over options were explored. Having worked through this period and into the new season, I believe it is now the right time to step aside and allow a new manager the opportunity to rebuild the squad and take the club forward.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of the staff at Bolton Wanderers Football Club, for their constant support. I would like to thank the loyal supporters who have backed the players and coaching staff through thick and thin and I would like to thank the players, past and present, who have worked hard to improve the fortunes of this club on the pitch.

“I wish Bolton Wanderers the very best of luck and I hope for a brighter future, as those who support this club truly deserve to see Bolton Wanderers thrive again.”