Sutton United boss Paul Doswell has admitted he is feeling the pressure on the back of nine games without a win.

Saturday’s exit from the FA Cup, a competition in which Sutton have a history of reaching the first round proper, left Doswell both disappointed and nursing his wounded pride.

It took a single goal from Bromley to end United’s cup dreams before they had begun.

And it also spelled the end for assistant manager Alan Payne who left the club after a meeting with Doswell.

United return to action in the Blue Square South this weekend at Tonbridge Angels hoping to lift themselves from second bottom.

Doswell said: “We’re on the back of four very good years and so far we’ve had a poor five weeks. But you back yourself to get the job done and I back myself that after 42 games we’ll do OK.

“There are forums where people can express their views but in the main supporters are realistic. We’ve over-achieved over the past four years – but when you’re used to being successful it comes as a shock when you’re not.”

He added: “The FA Cup is a competition you can never win but it is a competition you want to progress in for financial reasons. There is pressure on me, but it is a pride thing more than anything else.”

On Payne’s departure, first team coach Steve McKimm said: “Paul let Alan go with a heavy heart because they have worked together for a long time, but that’s football.”

Doswell is sweating on the fitness of Craig Dundas for the Angels game after the midfielder missed the Bromley match with a tight hamstring.