JAN Poortvliet walked out of Saints last night, after being overwhelmed by fan criticism, but described his time at the club as a “beautiful adventure.”

The Dutchman said he had been stunned by the “negativity” from the crowd during last Saturday’s 2-1 defeat to Doncaster at St Mary’s.

Speaking honestly and openly to the Daily Echo after resigning as head coach, the 53-year-old said that loss had been the final straw.

Although the reaction from supporters this week has left something of a bitter taste in his mouth, Poortvliet said he had enjoyed the chance to take charge of Saints.

“For me, it’s just the end of a beautiful adventure and hopefully in the future for me will come other things,” he said.

For the full interview with Jan Poortvliet, see today's Daily Echo.