FORMER Saints midfielder David Hughes has left Eastleigh by mutual consent.

The 35 year-old player/assistant manager, who has been instrumental in Eastleigh’s rise up the non-league pyramid in recent years, agreed to leave The Spitfires in order to help the club reduce its wage budget and at the same time try and get first team football elsewhere.

The Spitfires financial problems have been well documented, with the club having lost a six-figure sum of sponsorship income and an estimated further £20,000 as a result of two cup defeats last week.

Hughes joined Eastleigh in June 2002 from Saints where injury brought a premature end to his professional career.

Back then Eastleigh were in the Wessex League but in Hughes' first season they won the title to earn promotion to the Southern League.

While making over 250 appearances for the Stoneham Lane club, scoring 38 goals, Hughes also helped Eastleigh up to the Blue Square South, after they switched from the Southern to the Ryman League for the 2004/05 season.

A statement released by the club read: "Eastleigh Football Club can today confirm that we have agreed (by mutual consent) to release David Hughes.

"As is typical of Hughsey, he has agreed to leave the Club in order to help reduce our costs and, at the same time, in order to ensure first team football for himself in the twilight of his career.

"David Hughes has been an integral part of the rise through the Leagues for EFC. Since joining the Club from Southampton in 2002, he has made well in excess of 250 appearances – many more than any other current player.

"He has also worked tirelessly to promote the Club, and was instrumental in encouraging other ex Saints players (Matt Le Tissier, Francis Benali, Jason Dodd et al) to adorn Eastleigh colours.

"During the past two seasons, Dave has acted as both Manager and Assistant Manager and has always been 100% behind the Club.

"This Club owes David Hughes an immense debt of gratitude, and of course we wish him well for the remainder of his career. He will always be welcome at the Silverlake Stadium."