Paul King said he will be “gutted” to leave Witham Town after confirming that he won’t be lining up at the Village Glass Stadium next season.

The central defender has been Witham’s club captain for the last three years, but is now set for a new chapter in his football career, with Ryman League premier division side VCD Athletic being a possible next stop for him.

King said he had initially intended to retire at the end of a campaign that saw Witham relegated back to Ryman League division one north due to family commitments and injuries, however, he has been tempted to have at least another season.

He said: “I’m gutted to be leaving the boys at Witham.

“Garry (Kimble) is a really nice bloke who I consider to be a good friend and I’ll miss him and the boys there massively.

“I really do wish them all the best for the future.

“I was intending to hang my boots up to be honest as I want to be more involved in my boy’s football and the injuries that I’ve had over the years have taken their toll.

“I have played with no cartilage in my knee for the past six or seven years so the time seemed right to retire.

“However, after making my decision I had a number of phone calls from clubs in the Ryman Premier and Ryman One North and realised that I may have somethign still to offer.

“I’ve met with the guys at VCD and know (their new manager) Keith McMahon wanted me when he was in charge at Thamesmead.

“It’s a great set-up there and they are an ambitious club, but I will miss Witham as I’ve had a great time there.”