Richard Taundry dismayed by release from Walsall
Walsall defender Richard Taundry today admitted the end of his career at the Banks's Stadium is a "bitter pill to swallow."
The 24-year-old, who rose through the youth system at the Banks's Stadium after joining his hometown club as an under-13.
He was one of five players let go yesterday as boss Dean Smith began his preparations for next season.
Striker George Bowerman was also released after the club decided against extending his contract for a year, along with Aaron Williams, Connor Taylor and Jake Jones.
Despite his disappointment, Taundry admits he was not expecting to be offered a new deal after making just 18 appearances.
His opportunities were limited by the fine form of James Chambers and Ben Purkiss.
Taundry said: "I have been at the club a long time and it's a bitter pill to swallow, but I will have to get over it.
"I was kind of expecting it with the way the season has gone for me, since the Coventry game – it was always on my mind that I wouldn't be staying.
"Maybe it could be a good thing for me and my career to start afresh. I put as much effort into things as the other lads but for whatever reason or another, things just didn't come off for me.
"It's been a build-up of different things and maybe this is a blessing in disguise. I'm not going to go into what the manager told me but we shook hands and parted on good terms."
Taundry says he is hopeful of landing another deal elsewhere. He added: "I've spoken to my agent and a few things have been said.
"The season is over now so I want to spend a little time with my family and then take things from there."
Meanwhile, the club will continue negotiations with leading scorer Will Grigg, fellow forward Febian Brandy and midfield enforcer Adam Chambers over new contracts.
Deals have been offered to Craig Westcarr, James Chambers and Purkiss, as well as youth-teamers Jake Heath, Danny Griffiths and Liam Roberts.
Dean Holden's offer of an extended deal includes the role of Pro Development Coach, looking after the players in the 18-21 age group.
The club will take up their option to extend the contracts of emerging duo Ben George and Kieron Morris.
