Apologies if already posted: Ritchie on his time at Barnsley from SKY Sports

Ritchie on his time at Barnsley from SKY Sports

Andy Ritchie is confident he has left Barnsley in better shape compared to when he took over the club.

The Championship club sacked Ritchie as manager earlier in the week after talks regarding a new contract collapsed.

Barnsley also accused Ritchie of not signing enough players, but he remains proud of his achievements during 18 months at Oakwell.

He guided the club to promotion last season and believes The Tykes are in a stronger position, despite being in the relegation zone.

"I'm very proud of what I did there," Ritchie told Goals on Sunday.

"I have been very lucky that the lads were brilliant and got us up last season which was great for the town and great for the club.

"I think I left it in a better state, but unfortunately we didn't get the results we wanted this season.

"I've paid the price and that's a hazard of football."

Expanding on the nature of being a football manager, Ritchie was aware of the importance of results, with Barnsley having won just four games prior to his dismissal.

He added: "I think you have to accept it as a manager. You hope it's going to be a lengthy stay and you are always going to be there.

"But it's so results driven that if you don't get them, you are going to be expendable."