GEORGE HORAN has reflected on his memorable career at Chester FC.

The 32-year-old has skippered the Blues to three successive title-winning league championships in the last four years, but has decided to leave the club just days after Chester were reinstated to the Conference Premier league.

Chester-born Horan, who netted 20 goals in 159 appearances for the club, admitted it was time for a change.

“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time at Chester and I was very proud of being a member of the squad that enjoyed so much success. It’s been brilliant,” Horan said.

“Last season was very disappointing, but I don’t think we deserved to finish any higher in the league table because we had too many poor performances and poor results.

“I agreed in priniciple to stay at Chester after speaking to Steve Burr last week, but I still needed to speak to my employer because they provide my main income.

“I then spoke to Jon McCarthy who asked whether I was going to re-sign, but I still hadn’t spoken to my employer about getting time off for travelling and for training sessions.

“I faced a big decision, but in the end I decided it was just time for a change and to move on.

“I have spoken to a few clubs already in England and Wales who are wanting to sign me, but I haven’t signed for anyone yet.”

Horan signed for the Blues in July 2010 from Droylsden and spearheaded Chester to consecutive title victories in the Evostik Division One North, Northern Premier League, and Conference North.

Among his iconic goals were a headed effort against Witton Albion in the Evo-Stik Division One North and a volley against FC United of Manchester the following season. Both goals were last minute winners in dramatic 3-2 wins.

He added: “I’ve enjoyed so many memorable moments during my time at Chester, but the last title win in the Conference North was the best in my opinion.

“Most people thought we would do well to challenge for a play off place, but we won the title convincingly and I was really honoured to captain that team.

“I can’t really single out any games or goals of real note as highlights, but it was great to be able to play alongside all the lads who worked so hard to earn Chester success.

“Everybody at Chester during the last four years has worked so hard to put the club in a good place for the future.

“I’m proud and flattered as a local lad that people have held me in such high esteem during my time at Chester.”

Horan believes the Blues must try and consolidate their place in the Conference Premier league next season after winning a reprieve.

He said: “I had mixed feelings when I heard that Chester had received a reprieve following Hereford being expelled from the league.

“I thought Chester deserved to be relegated last season because we didn’t play well enough, but the league’s decision to expel Hereford was fair in the end because they broke the rules.

“I know that the club has a plan in place to climb into the Football League, but I’d like to think that Chester can consolidate next season before following in the footsteps of AFC Wimbledon and Fleetwood Town.

“Our progress as a club was probably achieved far too quickly, but Chester has a great fanbase and I can see the club eventually playing in the Football League.”

Horan, who struggled with an ankle injury towards the end of last season, is enjoying a well deserved break before focusing his sights on another campaign.

He added: “I missed eight weeks last season which was very frustrating, but I made sure I was fit enough to play against Wrexham.

“Maybe I rushed back too soon, but I was really keen to be involved in the Wrexham match and I was pleased that I was able to play.

“I’m now taking a break, but I have been running, and I’m looking forward to enjoying another season of football.

“I’d just like to thank all the Chester fans for their support during my time at the club and I’m hoping they will have plenty to cheer about next season.”