Richard Hill has left his role as Whitehawk manager to become part of Steve Bruce's backroom team at Aston Villa.

Former Eastleigh boss Hill had only taken over at Hawks in September following the departure of Pablo Assensio.

It means the National League outfit are looking for a fourth manager in the space of nine months after Steve King was axed in February.

Director of football Alan Payne and player-assistant manager Ben Strevens have been put in caretaker charge and will lead the team in tonight's FA Trophy tie at St Albans.

A club statement said: "We wish to place on record our thanks to Richard for his service to the club during his spell as manager and wish him the very best of luck in his new role with Aston Villa.

"The club believe that this is a good opportunity for Richard, therefore did not stand in his way and prevent him from accepting this lucrative role.

"Alan Payne and Ben Strevens will take temporary charge of the first team with immediate effect until a new manager is appointed, a process which the club will take time in doing."