By John Fuller

Last updated at 09:04, Tuesday, 21 June 2011

Departing Shaun Vipond agonised for more than a week before accepting an offer to join Blyth Spartans.

Sean Vipond

The tough-tackling midfielder, pictured right, insists it was the hardest decision of his career to leave Workington Reds.

Vipond hailed boss Darren Edmondson as the best manager he’s played under and did not rule out returning to Borough Park in the future.

He said: “Darren and Viv Busby have been first class. They are the best managers I’ve had the privilege to work with and it was very hard to come to a decision.

“I’ve loved my time with Workington and phoning Darren wasn’t easy. I had a lot of things running around my head but I had to leave for logistical reasons.

“I didn’t want to leave because I love the lads, they have all been fantastic with me and I’ve loved being part of the team.

“We are a close bunch and I spoke with a couple of the senior players to let them know my thoughts and they understood where I was coming from.”

Hexham-based Vipond turned down an offer from former Reds manager Tommy Cassidy to sign for Whitby.

He said: “Tommy got in touch and put an offer on the table but I didn’t want to drop down any levels.

“I want to play at the highest standard I can and moving to Blyth I can stay in the Blue Square Bet North.

“It’s the right move for me but I was gutted to say goodbye.”

Vipond’s two favourite memories in a Workington shirt are scoring the winner against AFC Wimbledon in the FA Trophy two years ago and a stunning solo effort against Hyde, when he picked up the ball on the edge of his own box before taking on all-comers and scoring.He said: “I have had some happy times with Workington and I’m looking forward to seeing the lads when we meet in the league. “I wish Workington Reds all the success in the world.”

First published at 11:30, Monday, 20 June 2011
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk