CHRIS HOPE has left Priestfield as a Gillingham player for the final time but insists his playing career is far from over.

The 33-year-old, who was club captain last season, was one of seven players released by manager Ronnie Jepson in an end-of-season clear out.

Despite the news coming as a shock, Hope insists his departure was with a smile.

He said: "It’s disappointing but I now have to move on and look forward. I didn’t want to leave but the thing with Ronnie is that he’s up-front."

Hope has already received enquiries about next season and feels that he has plenty to offer.

"There’s no chance of me quitting," he added.

* For the full interview with Chris Hope, plus reaction from Ronnie Jepson see the Medway Messenger.