Carl Magnay has written an emotional farewell letter to Hartlepool fans after his departure from the club was confirmed today.
The 30-year-old full-back has made over 100 appearances for Pools, having joined the club back in 2015.
Magnay began his career in the Leeds United academy before finding fame by winning the second series of Sky TV show Football Icon.
As a reward for winning the show, the defender signed a contract with Premier League giants Chelsea in 2007, where he stayed until 2012, however his time in West London was ultimately plagued with injury.
Stints with Gateshead and Grimsby followed, before Magnay moved to Victoria Park, where he was eventually handed the captain's armband.
The Hartlepool legend wrote, “It is with great sadness that I announce I have left Hartlepool United.
It is regrettable that my season came to an end early and I was not able to play an influential role on the pitch in what is now known as my final season with the Club.
Whatever the opinions are of my time with Hartlepool, I can categorically state that whenever I stepped onto the pitch I did so with pride, particularly as captain, and always gave 100% whether my performance was good, bad or indifferent.
It was my desire to get out on the pitch and represent the Club that ultimately cut my season short. In hindsight, I should never have set foot on the pitch in my last two appearances but I stand by my commitment to the team and it's one of those things I will have to live with.
I have seen that over 3,000 Season Tickets have been sold which is incredible support. I urge the great fan base to get behind this year's group of players, to create a feel good factor and stick by them through what I'm sure will be an entertaining season. I sincerely hope it ends in success and the Club and the fans can regain their rightful place in the Football League.
I want to thank previous managers, coaches, players and, importantly, those who work in the office who do so much hard work behind the scenes, which is sometimes overlooked, for all their support and friendship over my four years with the Club. I wish you nothing but the best.
I now look forward to a new challenge in my career. I have a desire to move into coaching and hopefully one day management and will look to begin that journey alongside part-time football.
Thanks again and all the best”
