A long-running feud between national coach Keith Tucker and his assistant Jack Castle has resulted in the latter being sacked, The Royal Gazette can reveal.

It was learned last night that Tucker had informed Castle on Sunday that his services "would no longer be required".

When approached prior to last night's national squad training session at the National Sports Centre (NSC), Tucker declined to comment.

Castle, however, confirmed that he had in fact been sacked by the former Howard University coach who he says must "get honest with his commitment with the senior national team with all the personal issues going on in his life".

"I think Keith needs to be honest with the BFA (Bermuda Football Association) and the country," he said.

When asked what were the reasons for his swift dismissal, Castle replied: "Keith didn't appreciate some of the concerns that I raised about the team during Saturday's meeting."

Tucker met with his players and technical staff over the weekend in an effort to try and settle various concerns over his controversial system of play, coaching methods, team selection and general running of the team.

Castle continued: "Keith sent me an email on Sunday stating that my services were no longer required following Saturday's meeting.

"I have no hard feelings about his decision. We just didn't see eye-to-eye, and I am fine with moving on."

Last week it was revealed that all was not well behind the scenes at the senior national level, with striker Aljame Zuill and coach Tucker exchanging words during a practise session and a number of other players also said to be up in arms over specific team matters.

In defence of the beleaguered coach, former West Ham great Clyde Best threw his weight firmly behind Tucker - describing him as a man of integrity more than capable of taking Bermuda football to the next level.

It remains unclear whether Tucker will find a replacement for Castle whose sacking came a day after BFA technical committee chairman Mark Trott was stripped of his top post.

Tucker is currently preparing the national squad for Saturday's clash with Major League Soccer (MLS) outfit New England Revolution.

Bermuda recently drew 1-1 with Cayman Island in the first leg of their World Cup qualifier at the NSC.