Sad Stuart Whitehead denied a proper AFC Telford goodbye

Popular defender Stuart Whitehead admits the only regret he has on leaving AFC Telford United is that he didn't get a chance to wave a fond farewell to the fans.

The 35-year-old was a huge part of Mick Jones's old Telford United team that looked ready to take the Conference by storm before the club went bust in 2004.

But it is since returning in 2007 to play for the new club as well that he has really gone on to win a place in the hearts of the fans.

And – despite sadness at his departure to Worcester City today – he insists there is no anger at the end to his Telford career or manager Andy Sinton's decision.

"I had a chat with the gaffer about the future and what was likely to happen next season," Whitehead revealed.

"He was fantastic and gave me the most honest answer he could. The club is evolving and I think my age is a factor because time doesn't stand still – he told me he was happy for me to be part of the squad until May but, realistically, there wouldn't be anything for me next season.

"He said that if I could get something more long-term fixed up then he would support me and this is probably the best decision for me and for the club.

"I go with the greatest gratitude to Telford and to Andy Sinton," he added. "I never thought I'd have another season at this level and I have really enjoyed it.

"My only regret is that I didn't get to say a proper goodbye after my last game because I didn't know then that this was happening."

Whitehead, who now also works as a firefighter, will be turning out for his eighth club at Worcester – having previously played for Bromsgrove, Carlisle, Darlington, Shrewsbury and Kidderminster as well as both incarnations of Telford United.

But he insists he is relishing the challenge at St George's Lane, where he will be re-united with former Bucks Danny Carey-Bertram and Kevin O'Connor.

"I'm excited about the challenge at Worcester," said Whitehead.

"The management team there are very good and I'm really looking forward to it.

"It enables me to have more time with my family because it's not as far (from his home in Redditch) and there's not as much training."

See also:

• Stuart Whitehead ‘gutted’ to leave AFC Telford United

• Stuart Whitehead ready for AFC Telford’s Blue Square Premier season

• Stuart Whitehead: Bucks promotion my finest hour

• Fireman Stuart is again on sidelines