Leaving with great memories

Francois Zoko, as he told the official website, leaves Carlisle with a heavy heart having rejected a new contract put his way.

The 29-year-old has decided that his two-year stay at Brunton Park had to end due purely to a professional nature with him keen to play at a higher level, something that Carlisle failed to achieve when they feel just short of the league one play-offs.

Zoko doesn't have a deal lined up with a championship club but he says that he soon hopes to but had a 'fantastic time' with Carlisle and will 'never forget the support' that was seen: 'I've had a fantastic time at the club and I'll never forget the support and help I've received.

'From the moment I arrived everybody was extremely friendly and helpful whether they were fans, players or staff.

'It can sometimes be difficult to settle in a new country but the way I have been treated here made it so much easier.

'It was a hard decision to make and I have had to think long and hard about it. But I have to consider that I am 29-years-old and this could be my last opportunity to test myself at a higher level.

'I want to play at Championship level, if possible, and even though nothing is sorted yet I'm hoping to have it all finalised soon.'

Players come and go so Zoko is no different to any other. Most fans would have wanted him to stay but a majority would not begrudge him the move to a higher level, would they?

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