Carsley opts to quit Toffees
19 May 2008 - 11:51:26
Everton have confirmed that Lee Carsley will leave Goodison Park this summer after the veteran midfielder rejected a new contract.
Carsley, 34, made almost 200 appearances during six seasons with the Toffees, but has opted to leave Merseyside in order to join a club closer to his family home in the Midlands.
The Republic of Ireland international has been linked with moves to Championship-bound sides Derby County and Birmingham City in recent weeks.
Carsley, who made 49 appearances for the Toffees this season, began his career with the Rams before joining Blackburn Rovers and Coventry City.
"I'd like to thank Lee Carsley for his years at Everton Football Club. He has undoubtedly been a big part in our success in the last few seasons," manager David Moyes told the club's official website.
"Lee feels he now needs to be closer to his family and everyone at the club fully appreciates that.
"We'd like to thank him he's been a fantastic player on and off the field and he goes with my best wishes and we wish him all the best in the future."