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.”