Liam McGuinness admits a desire to keep playing was behind the tough decision to leave his beloved Kilbirnie Ladeside.
It was announced earlier this week that the 38-year-old midfielder had come to a mutual agreement to quit Valefield Park when his contract runs out this summer.
Kilbirnie born and bred, McGuinness has spent more than 10 years at the club as both player and manager and is regarded as a Ladeside legend.
But today he revealed that a need to play regular football was the major factor in deciding to part ways with his hometown club who are smarting from relegation from the West of Scotland Premier League.
In a statement published on his Twitter feed, McGuinness said: "Unfortunately most good things come to an end. After having a long chat with the gaffer - and at 38 - I need to be playing regularly so we decided to call time on my playing career at the Vale.
"Can't speak highly enough of the club and it's been a fantastic place to be around over the course of my career. The memories and stories I have will live with me forever.
"I'll have a bit of time to think about what's next for myself then hopefully get going again.
"I wish the management and players all the very best in trying to get the team back to the Premier League as I think that's what the fans and club deserve."
Kilbirnie boss Thomas Molloy and the club's committee paid glowing tributes to McGuinness in heartfelt statements of their own.
Molloy said: "Where do you even start with words for a guy like Liam McGuinness.
"I have now managed for seven years and worked my way up from amateur level to Kilbirnie and I can safely say he's the best professional I've ever worked with.
"There's no point talking about his talent as we all know how good he was but for me I always put that aside and think of the person first and Liam is top guy.
"One of the best things I've done in football is get to know him."
Kilbirnie's committee, who plan to honour McGuiness with a testimonial match next season, added: "It goes without saying our hometown boy's contribution to Kilbirnie Ladeside FC has been outstanding over the 10-plus years.
"Liam leaves with many great memories, an exceptional player/person who has been adored by all our supporters.
"The pinnacle of his time undoubtedly will be his contribution to our 2008 West of Scotland Cup success, a day our supporters will never forget. He was simply majestic that day, which was usually the norm.
"I'm sure our supporters will join the committee and send our sincere thanks to Liam for all he's done for his and our football club."
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