EASTLEIGH have today parted company with wideman Jake Howells by mutual consent.

Signed in May on a two-year deal following his release from Luton Town, Howells was the second of 13 players brought in during the summer by former manager Chris Todd.

A regular in the side under Todd, the 25-year-old initially kept his place when Ronnie Moore took over the reins in late August and was in the starting line-up for the 1-1 home draw with Swindon Town in the FA Cup.

But Howells hasn't featured since injuring his knee in that game and his departure comes as Moore's successor Martin Allen is attempting to streamline his squad to make way for possible new signings. 

A statement released from the Silverlake this afternoon said: "Eastleigh Football Club can confirm that today, Jake Howells has left the club by mutual consent.

"We would like to thank Jake for his efforts whilst at the club and wish him all the best with the next stage of his career."

Howells tweeted: "Would like to thank everyone at Eastleigh Football Club and wish the club and players best of the luck this season and the future."