Chester FC will receive £8,000 compensation for Kingsley James following his summer move to FC Halifax Town, a tribunal has decided.
Although 'disappointed' with the fee for the England C international, chairman Grenville Millington said the club respected the ruling made on Friday at Wembley.
The FA tribunal decision includes a 20% sell-on clause should the Shaymen receive a fee for James in the future.
"We are a little disappointed with the outcome of the tribunal regarding Kingsley James but we will respect the decision and the process," said Millington.
The Chronicle understands National League rivals Halifax made bids of £5,000 for James on two occasions with the Blues turning both down because the amount fell short of their valuation.
Rotherham-born James moved to Chester in summer 2014 on a 12-month deal after leaving Hereford United.
He was the club's leading performer over the first half of the season, earning him an England C call-up and reputed to be interesting Football League clubs.
However, his form dipped following a red card at Southport in January 2015 and he turned down a new contract towards the end of the season.
James, who scored three goals in 46 games for the Blues, announced his departure on Twitter .
Because he was under 24 years of age, Chester were entitled to compensation for the ex-Sheffield United man.
Halifax failed with two bids for James but then announced he had signed for them in July meaning a tribunal would be required.
The fact it has taken so long for the tribunal to be completed has been cause of great consternation to Chester manager Steve Burr, who will be relieved the drawn-out saga is now at an end.
James, who has played against Chester twice this season, has been an ever-present for Halifax since moving to West Yorkshire.
