David Artell has told the club’s official website that it was ‘immensely difficult’ to tell veterans, Paul Green and Nicky Hunt, that there wouldn’t be an offer of a new contract on the table this summer.
Artell had to inform the vastly experienced pair of his decision last week and he admits that neither men deserved to be released after having the impact they did over a relatively short space of time.
Green, 37, made 79 appearances for the Railwaymen after originally joining us on loan from Oldham Athletic in January 2018. The former Republic of Ireland International scored three goals but it was his all round game, experience and positional sense that made him a key member of the squad.
Hunt, 36, made 54 appearances during his two year spell with the club. His versatility to play in both full-back positions or as a centre-half made him the ultimate squad player and he never let the team down when called upon. The experienced Hunt scored his one and only goal away at Carlisle United back in October 2019.
Artell told us: “I think those two have been a real credit to themselves and this football club. Sometimes players have an impact over a long period of time and longevity is important but others in a relatively short period of time and they have both made a terrific impact.
“They have certainly helped me, us, the club, turn around a sinking ship and turn it on the right course and now we are heading in the right direction again and that’s in no small part down to those two.
“If you ask any manger, would they have a really talented boy or a good character then they would go for the character first and foremost. Of course, ideally you need a bit of ability and talent but the last thing you want is someone to come in and rock the boat.
“Those two certainly didn’t. They were absolutely terrific for us and telling them of the decision was a really sad day and if I am honest they didn’t really deserve it.
He added: “I sincerely hope that they both go on and finish their careers with a flourish because they really deserve to. They have been terrific servants for this football club.”