FORMER Moroka Swallows coach Zeca Marques has thanked the club for giving him the chance to lead The Beautiful Birds, but said he was departing with a "heavy heart".

Marques yesterday wrote an emotional letter to the team he joined for his second stint in 2000 as assistant to decorated coach Gordon Igesund before he was elevated to head coach in 2012.

The 53-year-old voluntarily relinquished his position at the weekend following a home defeat to Mpumalanga Black Aces, telling players he had failed to meet expectations.

His position was taken over on a caretaker basis by Fani Madida, whose first match was last night's trip to former club and PSL leaders Kaizer Chiefs.

Yesterday, Swallows posted Marques's farewell letter on their website.

It read: "As you grow older, you come to realise that life is a series of beginnings and endings. I really believe that much of it is to prepare us for some of life's greatest challenges.

"Although I am leaving with a heavy heart, my decision to step aside was personally a very difficult one as I have always served the club with dignity, commitment and professionalism.

"I appreciate the opportunity given to me and am particularly proud of contributing to the club's success by winning the [2012] MTN8 trophy."

"Lollipop", as Marques was affectionately known by fans, also thanked his boss Leon Prins for having entrusted him with the position in July 2012.

He also singled out veteran midfielder and captain Lefa Tsutsulupa for praise.

The Portuguese quit The Birds's nest after six losses - excluding last night's match - in a row.