KEVIN Maher has ruled himself out of the running for the Chelmsford City job.

The former Southend United midfielder ended last season as caretaker manager with the Clarets and guided them to safety in National League South.

But Maher, who is also under 21 manager at Blues, will not be taking the job permanently at Melbourne Park.

“I enjoyed my time at Chelmsford but I’m ruling myself out of the job there now,” confirmed Maher.

“The fans and players were fantastic towards me during my time there and I’d like to thank them for that.

“But I’m disappointed with how it’s all come to an end if I’m honest.

“The job was offered to someone else while the chairman was claiming that I was top of the list and I just don’t think it’s been handled in the right way.

“However, I’ve always been fully focused on my job at Southend.

“I love being in and around the place every day and I’m really looking forward to that continuing next season.”