Cambridge United can confirm that centre back Leon Legge will depart after three years with the Football Club, following the conclusion of his current contract at the end of the 2017/18 season.
The central defender, who joined the U's in May 2015, has played a key role for United on and off the field during his time at the Abbey Stadium, making over 120 appearances, representing the Club as captain on a number of occasions and supporting the Club's work across the community with great professionalism and enthusiasm.
Recently, the defender's game time with Cambridge United has decreased and with plans in mind for the first team squad next season which may not provide the central defender with the sufficient playing time he requires at this stage in his career, the Club and Leon have mutually decided to part ways to allow him to pursue further opportunities.
Whilst Cambridge United will be announcing its full retain/release list next week, the Club has seen it fit to pay tribute to Leon's contribution in advance of tomorrow's final fixture of the season. This therefore provides him with the opportunity to formally say his farewells to the fans, and vice versa for the Amber Army to show their appreciation for his fantastic efforts.
Cambridge United Head of Football, Ben Strang commented: “When making decisions for squad planning there are often difficult decisions to be made, and probably none more so than this. Leon has been an outstanding servant to Cambridge United over the past three seasons and has always played with his heart on his sleeve.
“He has been captain during his spell with us and is a fantastic professional. Unfortunately at the stage of Leon’s career he needs and deserves to be playing in this league, and similarly to the latter stages of this season, we don’t feel that we are able to provide that. With this in mind we believe it is in both parties’ best interests for this decision to be made.
“Nonetheless we must thank Leon for his commitment to the club during his time here, in which he has also been an important figure in our community work. We wish Leon nothing but the best and are sure that the Abbey faithful will give him a suitable farewell on Saturday.”
Everybody at Cambridge United Football Club would like to wish Leon all the very best in his future endeavours.