Former Chelsea and Real Madrid forward, Nicolas Anelka, has lost his job as a Sporting Director at French fourth-tier club, Hyeres, after three months in charge.

Anelka who was appointed by businessman, Mourad Boudjellal, on February 3 attributed his reason for quitting to “severe restrictions” caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

HIs decision came after football chiefs halted Championnat National 2 – France’s fourth tier – on April 23 amid a new COVID-19 wave.

Speaking to footmercato.net, Anelka said “I came to this project thinking that the virus was conquered and that amateur football was going to resume.

“After three months at the club the observation is obvious. The sports project is no longer the same! Amateur football is at a standstill and the restrictions are even more severe. I do not see any short and medium-term projection on amateur football.

“My experience and expertise are of no use at the moment. I, therefore, prefer to devote my time to my other activities.

“I thank the president for giving me this opportunity. I discovered a club, this magnificent region and its friendly inhabitants.

“I wish good luck to this project and to all. Saddened to leave the Var club, Nicolas Anelka keeps only good memories.”

The UK Sun reported that the former French international expressed worry for Hyeres, adding that his plans will suffer due to “financial difficulties” caused by the lockdown and not playing.