Defender Jamie Mellen has left Workington Reds as he bids to get more first team football.

The talented youngster departed Borough Park this week on friendly terms after discussions with manager Lee Andrews.

An ever-present until early December, Mellen recently lost his place in the side and, after seeking assurances from Andrews, was told he could not be guaranteed a regular start.

The player and manager discussed the situation on Tuesday and agreed to part company amicably.

Mellen, who came through the youth system at Everton, joined Reds for the start of the 2017-18 season and made 83 appearances , 42 starting and 41 as a substitute, in total.

The club released a statement saying they ‘would like to thank Jamie for his service during his time at Borough Park and wish him good fortune at the next stage of his career’.

After a difficult few days with new boss Gavin Skelton departing the club, Reds have to pull together as they face a trip to sixth place Gainsborough Trinity on Saturday, hoping to build on last weekend’s 1-1 draw at Stafford Rangers as they look to claw their way out of relegation danger.

Trinity did not have the best of run-ins to the festive season with three defeats but then got back on track with a win over Matlock Town on New Year’s day before drawing with league leaders Nantwich last Saturday.