Reading have released defender Andy Griffin as they prepare for life back in the Premier League.
Defender happy to leave on a winning note
Reading have released defender Andy Griffin as they prepare for life back in the Premier League.
Griffin leaves the Madejski Stadium on a free transfer after two-and-a-half years at the club.
The 33-year-old made nine appearances for Reading in the Championship as they won the title, but he has found himself playing second fiddle to Shaun Cummings.
The former Newcastle and Stoke man insists he has enjoyed his time at Reading, ending it on a high with a title winner's medal.
"The two-and-a-half years I've been here I have thoroughly enjoyed," Griffin told the
Reading Evening Post.
"I've had my ups and downs this year, but I ended on a high by picking up a medal as part of a squad of champions.
"My time here has been one of the best spells of my career and I've had quite a good career and been fortunate to have played in some good teams," said the former Stoke, Derby, Portsmouth and Newcastle United defender.
McDermott praise
Griffin also paid special tribute to Royals boss Brian McDermott for leading the club to promotion.
"I've played for a good manager at a good club with some good footballers and also good men," added Griffin.
"The gaffer has nothing but respect from his players for being a good manager and a good man. I can't speak highly enough of him and everyone else associated with Reading Football Club.
"To bounce back after losing the play-off final last season says a lot about the manager and the squad here. It's a very demanding league and a new challenge now starts for the club to stay in the Premier League. Now is the time for enjoying that success and all the guys at Reading deserve this."
