Russell pays tribute to Holy Blues

Russell, 35, scored eight goals in 29 appearances last season and penned a heart-felt letter that was published on the club’s official website.

The all-action midfielder has departed as manager Curtis Woodhouse shakes up his squad for the 2020/21 season.

He said: "I would like to say firstly how difficult it has been to make the decision to leave Gainsborough Trinity.

“Gainsborough Trinity is an amazing club and somewhere that I have thoroughly enjoyed my football over the course of six years. It is simply a case of personal circumstances which is why I now leave for a new challenge.

"The club is as great as it is, due to the people that make it function. The people who give their all and their own time, not only on match days but throughout the week on top of their own personal careers.

"Gainsborough is also amazing because of the fans that show unwavering support and have been brilliant to me despite having to endure some difficult times including the recent relegation which was really difficult to take.

"I would like to thank everyone at the club and the fans for having me, I’ve made some friends for life here and so have my parents and we all hope to come back to visit when we can. I wish the club nothing but the best for the future and I have no doubt success is around the corner, which I hope includes a promotion back to the National League North.”