Allott: Why I quit Latics

MARK ALLOTT has been explaining why he has left Athletic after rejecting the offer of a new, improved contract.

The 31-year-old midfielder turned down a 12-month extension which would have given him a substantial pay increase.

“The only reason I turned down the offer was because I was looking for the security a two-year contract would provide for me and my family,” explained Allott, who is leaving after a second spell at Boundary Park.

Allott (pictured above) has two young sons and admitted it is a gamble as he has yet to find a new employer for the 2009/10 campaign.

He said: “There has been a little interest from one or two clubs, but nothing more than that at this stage.”

Allott confessed to having no desire to depart after two seasons in which he made exactly 100 appearances and scored seven goals.

He explained: “It is quite sad because I would have liked to stay, but it was not to be.

“I have really enjoyed my two years back at Latics and I would like to thank everyone, especially the fans who have been great since I came back.

“I knew a few people inside the club from my first spell, but I have made some good friends since I returned. I will be sad not to be going back.”

Athletic chief executive Alan Hardy said it was an indication of the club’s desire to keep Allott that he was offered a “generous” pay increase.

Allott was a product of Athletic’s centre of excellence and made his first-team debut in 1996 when he scored at Bolton Wanderers.

He joined Chesterfield on a free transfer in 2001 and it was during almost six seasons at Saltergate that he made a successful switch from striker to midfield man.

John Sheridan brought Allott back to Boundary Park two years ago and in the 2007/08 he was named the fans’ player of the year.

Allott’s spectacular strike at Huddersfield Town in January was voted Athletic’s goal of the season.

Nine of the 10 out-of-contract players have now left Athletic. The other player, Matty Wolfenden, is considering a short-term deal.

The injury-plagued striker has been given the chance to prove his fitness during pre-season.

o FORMER Athletic manager John Sheridan is being linked with the managerial vacancy at Blackpool.

Caretaker Tony Parkes has quit after rejecting the chance to remain at Bloomfield Road.

Sheridan is also a leading candidate for the manager’s job at Chesterfield, where Athletic legend Andy Ritchie is also in the frame.