Brian Cuthbert's two-year reign as Cork football manager has come to an end.

The Bishopstown man has released a statement confirming this morning's reports that he would not seek a third year in charge.

He said: "I have decided not to seek reappointment to the position of Cork senior football manager and am stepping down with immediate effect.

"From being within a few seconds of being crowned Munster Champions to making our All-Ireland Championship exit at the hands of Kildare at the weekend has been difficult for me, the players and backroom staff. The short period involved demonstrates the tight margins that exist between success and failure at inter-county level.

"I would like to thank the players and all the backroom staff for their huge commitment over the past two years. I would also like to thank the Cork County Board for extending every support possible to myself and the team in the course of the League and Championship campaigns."

Cuthbert led the Rebels to this year's League final and two Munster finals - but they lost by eight points to Kildare in last Saturday's Round 4 qualifier.

The speculation has already begun as to who Cork will appoint as Cuthbert's successor, with former Under-21 boss John Cleary and recently departed Tipperary manager Peter Creedon among the contenders.