Jensen Rogers is looking forward to a fresh challenge after parting company with Somerset Trojans, where he served on the senior coaching staff for the past four years.

The former Trojans defender wants to take a break from the sidelines and continue his coaching development elsewhere. He feels the time is right to hand over the reins to someone else as the West End club attempt to re-establish themselves as a dominant force in local football.

“After four seasons with Somerset Trojans, I felt it was time step down and allow someone else to step into the role and help move the team forward,” Rogers told The Royal Gazette.

“I’ve loved working with the club, the players and staff, but I want to take a season off or challenge myself in a new environment to keep developing as a coach.

“Staying would mean repeating the same cycle and I’d rather leave while the team is in a good space with gaining promotion.”

Trojans regained their top-flight status with two games to spare before beating promoted rivals Robin Hood 2-0 in the First Division title decider on the last day of the season and Rogers concedes his decision to step down was not an easy one.

“Somerset Trojans has been home for four seasons as a senior coach but not only that, I’ve had many seasons as a junior coach and a senior player, so it wasn’t easy,” he said.

“The relationships and memories make it tough to walk away but the most respectful thing I can do for the club and myself is to be honest about where I’m at and give someone else the chance to take it forward.

“I want to thank everyone at Somerset Trojans from the president to the groundsman for the trust and support over the last four seasons. I’ll always speak well of the club and, who knows, maybe I’ll be back soon.

“I love the club, players, coaching staff and the community. It’s nothing to do with any of those, it’s just a personal decision for me to leave.”

Rogers has not ruled out coaching at another club once he decides to return to game.

“Right now I’m exploring a few options, including different clubs, age groups and also taking some time to study coaches around the island,” he said.

“My priority is to learn and improve as a coach. I have had talks with some clubs and if the project makes sense, then I’m open to jumping back into coaching. If it doesn’t, then I'll just take some time off and jump back in when I feel it makes sense for me.

“I’ve been at Somerset so long and they now have all the correct pieces, so now I can move on. I want to go to a club now that hasn’t figured it out or doesn’t have all the correct pieces and I want to help them get there.

“I want to help build a club and help get them to where they need to be. Whether it's a First Division team, helping them get to the Premier Division or even a Premier Division team that has lost its way a bit and just need a new face.

“I’m open to assistant coach roles as well, but again working with people has to make sense. It has to be a good combination.”

As well as Trojans, Rogers has also coached at fellow west end outfit Somerset Eagles, where he got his first senior coaching job.