Matlock Town lose club captain

The decision comes following discussions between Qualter, manager Martin Carruthers and chairman Jay Beaumont, with the club citing a change in the player’s work commitments as a key factor behind the move.

Qualter joined the club in the summer of 2020 from Alfreton Town and was named the Gladiators’ Player of the Year last season after a number of consistently impressive displays.

The centre-back had made 27 appearances for the club so far this season.

“It’s really sad that he’s going, I didn’t want to lose him,” manager Martin Carruthers said.

“Unfortunately Ryan’s personal circumstances, coupled with his own professionalism, have led to him making the move from the club.

Fortunately with Adam Yates back at the club and with the likes of Jamie Sharman, Jaz Goundry and Ioan Evans, it’s made things a little easier.

“He’s a top performer, a top professional who has been a tremendous help to me since I came to the club. He’s well liked and respected in the dressing room so he’ll be sorely missed, and it goes without saying that we wish him all the best in his life in and out of football.”

Qualter’s final appearance for the Gladiators came in a 2-2 draw with Morpeth Town last month, where he signed off with a Man of the Match performance and scored their second equalising goal.

“I’m gutted and really upset with how fast things have happened and I’ve been struggling to get my head around things," he said.

"The reasons for me leaving are purely circumstantial, I can’t commit fully to the new training regime as I have my girls on a Monday and Wednesday evening, plus I’m starting a new job which also doesn’t fit in with training nights.”

“The club suggested I train away from the squad and continue to play for them. I’ve given this a lot of thought, we’ve looked at every option, but I don’t think it’s fair to the lads, the manager and the club not to be there at training and expect to play on the Saturday.

"It left a lump in my throat but I’ve had to accept it’s just one of those things. It’s probably best for everyone that we part ways for now.”

The club have confirmed that the captain's armband has been passed onto fellow defender Adam Yates.

Photo credit: Matlock Town