DEFENDER Marcel McKie has departed the Saints in search of first team football. The talented former England Youth international left back could not displace the excellent Scott Cousins in the City side last term. City boss Steve Castle was disappointed

DEFENDER Marcel McKie has departed the Saints in search of first team football.

The talented former England Youth international left back could not displace the excellent Scott Cousins in the City side last term. City boss Steve Castle was disappointed to lose McKie but understands why the ex-Spurs man had to move on. He said: "I didn't let him go but he is requiring first team football at this moment in time. I couldn't promise him that. He is a fantastic footballer with a good attitude but it was really between Scott Cousins and Marcel. There is not a massive amount in it and it is unfortunate for Marcel that he got injured at the wrong time when I had put him in the side. His injury gave Scott his opportunity."

Versatile defensive player Hasim Deen and former Southend United youngster Reiss Noel have also left the Saints. Castle said: "Hasim Deen could not get to training as regularly as I wanted him to. Reiss Noel didn't get into the first team but he is a young lad and I'm sure he will come again. I wish him all the best."

Castle is on the lookout for new signings ahead of the new campaign although his budget depends largely on the outcome of negotiations with Bruce, Hunt, Sulaiman and Sunday. He said: "We are always looking to strengthen the squad. There will be lads coming down for pre-season training who have been released by bigger clubs and lads who are looking to try to get themselves deals. We are going to have a look at them.