Peterhead defender Graeme Sharp admits the Blue Toon are not making his departure an easy one.
The 30-year-old bid farewell to the Buchan team after yesterday’s 2-0 win against Ayr United at Balmoor as he begins a new job in Athens, Greece.
For Sharp, the decision to hang up his boots was not an easy one to make and his departure will be a bittersweet one.
He said: “I’m disappointed to be leaving Peterhead and I feel as if I’m letting a lot of people down by going during the season.
“The fact everyone has been so supportive hasn’t made matters any easier, either. I’ve had so many messages of support from the board, the manager, my team-mates and supporters and that’s just making the decision to go even harder.
“It’s not as if I’m injured or unable to play regularly any more. I feel as if I could play for another couple of years at least for Peterhead. I’ve been here 10 years, a third of my life, and walking away from that is not easy.”
The opportunity to start a new life abroad was too much to resist but Sharp, who joined the club from Montrose, has not ruled out returning to Balmoor.
He said: “Working and living abroad is something I’ve always wanted to do and the chance to enjoy a Mediterranean lifestyle is appealing.
“I had to ask myself was I ready to give up my football? The answer is probably no as the last two years have been the most enjoyable of my career but sometimes sacrifices have to be made and I knew I would regret passing this opportunity by. I’m sad to be leaving the club but I will be back at Christmas and I’ll be back at the club to cheer on the players.
“The manager has already said he is keeping my registration open in case I’m available and he’s short of players. Knowing him as I do I’ve no doubt he will hold me to that, too.”