SAINTS Women's goalkeeper Fran Stenson has announced her departure from the club, just months after signing a new one-year contract.
Stenson, 25, was set to leave the club this summer after two seasons but penned a new deal to enter her third campaign at St Mary's in May.
However, the former youth England international has confirmed on social media she is now leaving Saints and will not serve the extra year.
It comes amid up to £300,000 of budget cuts to the team, which have seen some staff made redundant and its academy status reduced.
On Instagram, Stenson said: "Southampton, thank you for everything. To my teammates, thank you for making every day so special.
"It’s been a privilege to share the pitch with such a talented group. I’ve made friendships and memories that I’ll always be grateful for.
"To all of the staff, thank you for all the support throughout my time at the club. To the fans, thank you for your incredible support through every high and low.
"Your passion and loyalty never went unnoticed, and it was a privilege to play in front of you. I leave with great memories and wish everyone at the club nothing but success in the future."
Head of women's Marieanne Spacey-Cale is set to resign after helping transform Saints into a professional club and overseeing two promotions.
St Mary's will also no longer be the women's team's regular home, with the majority of fixtures set to be played at Eastleigh's Silverlake Stadium.
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