BRIGHTON & Hove Albion have accepted the resignation of head coach Oscar Garcia.
The Seagulls saw their play-off promotion hopes dashed by Derby County in a 4-1 semi-final defeat at the iPro Stadium on Sunday which meant they lost the tie 6-2 on aggregate, with Garcia offering to stand down.
Despite being time to mull over his decision, the Spaniard has now had his resignation accepted.
The club said in a statement on their official website: "Brighton & Hove Albion have accepted the resignation of head coach Oscar Garcia.
"Oscar met with the club earlier today, to formally offer his resignation to the board, which has been accepted. He has also informed the club's players of his decision."
Garcia hinted his decision to step down from the role had been in his mind for some time.
He said: "The club has been aware of my thoughts for several weeks and during this time I have had discussions with both the chairman, Tony Bloom, and chief executive, Paul Barber.
"I have enjoyed my time with the club but, although I do not have any immediate plans, I have decided to move on.
"I'm very proud of this season with Brighton. The Championship is a very difficult and competitive league but our record this season has been very good. I wish Brighton every success for the future."
Garcia added: "The club will always have a place in my heart and I hope very soon they will be competing at the top level in English football."
Chairman Tony Bloom added: "We are extremely grateful to Oscar for his efforts this past year, and for providing us with another exciting and memorable season at the club."
