LONG-SERVING Forest Green goalkeeper Paul White delivers a heartfelt farewell after agreeing to leave the club he served for nearly two-and-a-half years.

Having joined as a teenager, the former Republic of Ireland U18s Schools' international made one competitive first team appearance.

White,21, replaced Sam Russell as a second half substitute in a 1-1 home draw with Wrexham on the final day of the 2013-14 season.

In his time at The New Lawn he gained experience on loan at Southern League side North Leigh, while he had a lengthy spell at National League North Gloucester City last season, helping the Tigers avoid relegation from the National League North.

Another loan stint followed earlier this season at Frome Town after signing a one-year contract extension last summer.

WHITE FAREWELL

"Leaving is really hard to digest at the moment.

I've really settled in and enjoyed my time at Forest Green, but I think this is the best outcome for all parties.

For me as a footballer I'm happiest when I'm playing and unfortunately that hasn't happened at FGR, so the time is right for a fresh start and give myself the best opportunity to achieve what I want from the game.

There's a few options on the table so I’ll have to weigh everything up and decide what's best for me.

It's important for me to get as much game-time as I can in the next few months and then hopefully something will come about in the summer.

There's so many people I'd like to thank. Everyone I met over my time here have become family to me and it starts at the top with chairman Dale, who I cannot thank enough for giving me the opportunity and the platform to become a professional footballer.

Also, my two gaffers - Dave Hockaday and Ady Pennock, who I've felt developed me from a young teenager to a man, and also everyone at the stadium and groundstaff, who I've shared great memories and jokes with.

I'll never lose the Irish accent, but I've embraced the culture of Stroud and will keep it with me for a long time.

The players’ hostel is an invaluable asset to the club and it was a massive help for me settling in and ended up becoming my home.

I am grateful for everything the club and the people have done for me in my time at FGR, but as one door closes another door will open and I know I will go onto to have the career that I want."

                                                                                           Paul White