GOALKEEPER Ross Flitney has left Eastleigh by mutual consent.

The 32-year-old was deposed as Spitfires No1 last week following the high-profile arrival of Ryan Clarke from League One outfit AFC Wimbledon.

Manager Ronnie Moore wanted Flitney to stay and battle for a place, but said he understood if he did not feel he could continue at the club as Clarke’s understudy.

Moore said: “It’s tough on Ross. He’d kept something like 13 clean sheets in 17 games, but Ryan didn’t leave Wimbledon to come here as No2.”

Flitney joined the Spitfires, initially on loan, from Gillingham in October 2012 and will be forever revered as the goalkeeper that helped Eastleigh to the Conference South title and promotion to the National League.

A club statement said: "We would like to thank Ross for all that he has achieved whilst at the club and wish him well in the next stage of his career."