Former France striker Nicholas Anelka has quit as the sporting director of French fourth-tier team Hyeres after three months.

Anelka, who had a journeyman career that included stints at Arsenal, Real Madrid, Chelsea, Manchester City and PSG, was part of an ambitious project at Hyeres.

However, the COVID-19 crisis put paid to many of their plans, and the 42-year-old claims sever restrictions in the country have resulted in his expertise not being of use at the club.

Anelka told footmercato.net: "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."

He added: "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."