TOM CLARE has quit Macclesfield Town after starring on ITV dating show, Love Island.
The striker's contract at the club was due to run until 2024 but he has decided not to see it out.
Clare went on Love Island earlier this year after being allowed the opportunity by the Northern Premier League outfit.
He formed a couple with stunner Samie Elishi but their relationship did not last.
Clare has now announced his departure from Macclesfield as he seeks new opportunities by moving to London.
In his message, he thanked director of football and former Premier League star Robbie Savage and the fans for all their support.
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He wrote on Twitter: "Where do I start… this club has been right behind me throughout everything, the most I've ever enjoyed my football has been at this special club, the good times are unmatched and we've created memories that I will remember for the rest of my life.
"The decision for me to leave has been my decision and has been so tough, but now in my life, there's just too many opportunities that I just cannot turn down and moving down to London plays a huge part in that.
"To @robbiesavage8 and @smethurst1 I thank you both for being there for me no matter what and for doing things off your own backs to help me is something I will never forget, two of the most passionate, genuine guys I've ever met, you guys deserve the best.
"To the fans, I thank you for shouting my name week in, week out, and getting the stadium bouncing every single game, you fans have been through a lot but the only way is up!
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"Keep supporting the lads and I will come to as many games as I can.
"Football is my passion and has been in me since I could walk, I don't see it as a job.
"For the time being, I'm taking a step back to focus on other things, but I will never quit football and will keep myself in the best possible shape throughout all of this, @thesilkmen Thank you.
"To the lads, I will miss the banter on and off the pitch you're a top set of lads and it's been one of the best changing rooms I've ever been in, I wish you all the best in your careers!"
Savage admitted that this was always going to be a possibility once Clare went on Love Island.
He said: "How am I qualified to stop a young man taking on a potentially life-changing experience?
"Tom is a fit lad and it could be his gateway into modelling, gym equipment, TV appearances… anything.
"If he does well on Love Island, he could earn 20 times his current annual income in a single year. Who am I to deny him the opportunity to make life-changing sums of money?"
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