BRAINTREE Town's current longest-serving player Alfie Payne is leaving the club.

Payne has announced he is moving on, after making more than 150 appearances for the National League-bound side.

The 24-year-old midfielder says work commitments mean he is unable to train full-time, following the club's recent decision to step up its training session following promotion from National League South.

 

Writing on social media, Payne said: '3 seasons, a play off final win, an Essex Senior cup trophy and 160 appearances later it’s with great sadness that it’s time to say goodbye!

'Work commitments mean I am unable to train full time so I’ve had to make the difficult decision to leave this great club.

'A massive thank you to everyone that has been involved in the journey and supported me and the team. And a special thanks to all the players (some group!), coaching staff and fans that made it a season to remember! UP THE IRON. Now for the next chapter…'

 

Payne made his debut for Braintree in their Emirates FA Cup second qualifying round against Hashtag United in October, 2020.

Writing on social media, Braintree Town FC said: 'Thank you AP.

'Our current longest serving player Alfie Payne departs The Iron after a fantastic 158 appearances for the club.

'A great player and a great man and it's been our pleasure having you in North Essex for the past few years!

'Everyone at Braintree Town FC wishes you all the best in your next move, we're sure you'll smash it.'

Reggie Lambe and Dominic Odusanya have both been retained by Braintree for the 2024-25 campaign.