Andy Edwards has stepped down as Leyton Orient manager after taking up a role with the coaching department at the Football Association.

The 45-year-old leaves the O’s in the League Two relegation zone after yesterday’s 2-0 defeat at Mansfield Town.

Edwards joined the Brisbane Road club as youth team manager in 2009, before being appointed academy director in 2011.

Having taken over from Alberto Cavasin in November, Edwards oversaw just two wins in nine games and the O’s are without a win in their last five League Two matches.

Despite insisting he would stay on after the loss against the Stags, Edwards has opted to move on and says the need to advance his career was behind his decision.

He told the O’s website: “It has been a very difficult decision but I feel that it is in the best interests of my career and my family.

“I have been offered and duly accepted a role working within the coaching department of the Football Association.

“It has been an honour and a privilege to have worked for the club for over seven and a half years.

“I thank the chairman for the opportunity to manage the team and I thank all staff, players and supporters for the backing that they have given to me in my time here.

“It goes without saying that I wish Leyton Orient FC every success in the challenge ahead and in the longer term future.”

More information on who will take over from Edwards will be announced by Orient in due course.