Ebbsfleet United have announced the departure of midfielder Frankie Sutherland after his decision to quit full-time football.

The 26-year-old has decided instead to concentrate more time on a career outside of the game.

Sutherland, who started his career with QPR, spent a season with Fleet having spent two years at Bromley. He made 30 appearances in the National League during the 2019/20 campaign.

Speaking to the Ebbsfleet website, he said: “When I look around at everything that’s going on there now and what will I’m sure be an exciting season ahead for the club, it’s a tough decision for me to make.”

“It’s something I’ve been looking at and with all that’s been going on these past few months something that will potentially be of value for me and my family longer than my football career.”

Since the club accepted their relegation plight, Fleet have been busy preparing for a challenge at winning a place back in the National League, with popular player Michael West one of the new signings made by manager Dennis Kutrieb. Goalkeeper Tom Hadler has also joined the club.

While Sutherland is keen to work more and play less, he’s still likely to sign on for another club.

He said: “I do still want to continue to play at the highest level I can if it’s workable so it’s a time to evaluate and see what happens now.”

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