Lewis Alessandra has posted a classy parting message to Carlisle United after being released by the Blues.

The experienced forward has used Twitter to wish the club well and comment on his pride in playing for the club.

Alessandra's time at Brunton Park, which started in January 2020, came to an end this week when he was one of eight players let go by manager Paul Simpson.

It brought a close to a two-and-a-half year stint which brought 86 appearances and 12 goals.

Writing on social media, Alessandra said: "Thank-you @officialcufc for the last two-and-a-half seasons.

"Was a pleasure to pull on the shirt. Want to wish the club and everyone associated with it all the very best in the future."

Alessandra, 33, was released on Monday along with Rod McDonald, Manasse Mampala, Mark Howard, Gime Toure, Danny Devine, Kelvin Mellor and Jamie Devitt, inviting the latter back from pre-season training.

He had joined the Cumbrians during Chris Beech's tenure and helped the Blues pull away from relegation trouble in the shortened 2019/20 campaign.

Alessandra went on to feature regularly under Beech in 2020/21 and made 26 appearances in 2021/22 under Beech, Keith Millen and Paul Simpson.

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