Frank Sinclair had no axe to grind after being released by Leicester City.
The 32-year-old out-of-contract defender was informed of the club's decision by manager Micky Adams yesterday, bringing the curtain down on a six-year association at Leicester.
His 194th and final game in a City shirt came on Saturday at Highbury when he provided the cross for Paul Dickov's first-half goal.
Speaking as he left the City training ground, Sinclair said: "The club's decision didn't really come as a surprise if I'm honest.
"The money situation here has been well-documented and I was one of the highest earners so it was always going to be difficult for them to offer me a new contract."
Sinclair became the club's record signing in the summer of 1998 when Martin O'Neill snapped him up from Chelsea for £2.5million.
In February 2000, on his fourth trip to Wembley, and first with Leicester, Sinclair added a Worthington Cup medal to his trophy cabinet and was voted Player of the Year by his team-mates in 2001-02.
He helped City bounce back to the top-flight last term but saw what proved to be his final season hampered by an Achilles injury and the La Manga ordeal.
"It has been an unfortunate season to end on but five-and-a half of my six years here have been superb," said Sinclair.
"I've really enjoyed playing under all the managers here.
"The fans have been superb to me and I will go away with some fine memories."
Sinclair was also quick to praise Adams, who admitted it was a tough decision to let him go.
"I've always had a great relationship with the manager and I wish him all the best," Sinclair said. "He has always been good and honest to me and that's all you can ask for as a footballer.
"I am sure Leicester will go from strength to strength and I hope they can come back up to the Premiership next season.
"I'll always hold the club close to my heart."
Sad to see him go but great to see him not holding any grudges 
