Veteran Carsley leaves Everton on free transfer
Everton announce Lee Carsley is to be released this summer
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Monday, 19, May 2008 12:36
Veteran midfielder Lee Carsley has been released by Everton following the expiration of his contract this summer.
Toffees manager David Moyes revealed the news today after months of speculation over the 34-year-old's future.
Carsley - a former Republic of Ireland international - has been at Goodison Park throughout Moyes' time in charge, after being acquired by previous manager Walter Smith in 2002.
But he is keen to move to a club closer to his family in the Midlands, and Moyes said this was one of the overriding reasons for his release.
"I'd like to thank Lee Carsley for his years at Everton Football Club," Moyes told the club's official website.
"He has undoubtedly been a big part in our success in the last few seasons.
"Lee feels he now needs to be closer to his family and everyone at the club fully appreciates that.
"We'd like to thank him; he's been a fantastic player on and off the field and he goes with my best wishes and we wish him all the best in the future."
Carsley falls two games short of completing 200 appearances for Everton. He played 194 of his 198 games under Moyes.