DEPARTED Eastleigh defender Michael Green was back at his old club AFC Totton yesterday – but only as a spectator.
The left-back, the Spitfires’ longest-serving player, has been released after more than five years at the Siverlake Stadium.
The 27-year-old was a firm favourite among Eastleigh fans and said he had left with “a heavy heart” after being told he would not be offered a contract for next season.
Unsurprisingly Green's phone has been red-hot ever since with clubs eager to sign him.
“One or two National League clubs have been in touch and I’ve had quite a good offer from the league below,” he revealed.
“It feels weird leaving Eastleigh after five-and-a-half years, but Martin Allen wanted to bring in fresh faces and sign his own players.
"I don't think 27 is old, but the players he's bringing in now are a little bit younger.
“It’s disappointing because, at the start of the season, I thought I was having one of my better seasons.
"It was a confidence thing under (previous boss) Ronnie Moore. He didn't get on my back or anything. He let me go out and enjoy it.
“I leave with a heavy heart, but that’s how it goes sometimes.
"I want to thank Stewart Donald (chairman) for all his support and everyone that runs the club on a day-to-day basis.
"But, most importantly, thank you to the fans. Their support has been phenomenal over the years.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here