Departed defender Danny Higginbotham said making his Chester FC debut in the famous 2-0 win at Wrexham was a moment that would stay with him forever.

Higginbotham, who turned 35 on Sunday, joined up with the Blues on the eve of the cross-border derby in August and was outstanding in the heart of the defence.

He featured in another 18 games, captaining the side when skipper George Horan was on the sidelines, but parted company with the club on New Year's Day owing to his ever-increasing television and radio commitments as he looks to prepare for life after football.

"Since coming to Chester I've really enjoyed my time at the club," said Higginbotham, who started his career with Manchester United.

"Making my debut at Wrexham was fantastic and a proud moment and something I'll never forget."

Higginbotham, who became the reborn club's first international when he made his debut for Gibraltar in November, was unable to fully commit to the requirements of playing in a national league.

He plans to continue playing at a lower level until at least the end of the season and has already been linked with Skrill North outfit Altrincham.

Higginbotham has praised the players, management team and supporters for making him so welcome during his time at the Swansway Chester Stadium and has tipped his former team-mates to start climbing the table.

"Captaining the team on occasions in the absence of George was a great honour for me," he said.

"I've got nothing but good things to say about the fans and how they've stuck behind the team. The management have been a pleasure to work with and the team spirit amongst the lads is something that should go a long way to keeping the club up this season.

"Whenever I get the chance I'm hoping to come down and watch a game, and I've also made myself available to help the club off the field too, to help benefit the football club, so I'm leaving on great terms having made a lot of friends here."

Manager Neil Young said the decision to part company with Higginbotham was solely down to his increasing workload in the media.

"Danny has been both an outstanding footballer and person since he has been at the club," he said.

"It is very unfortunate that he has had to leave us but it was always a possibility with his media commitments taking off so successfully.

"Danny is planning for the next phase of his career and myself and all the management and players wish him and his family all the very best in the future and thank him for all his efforts whilst at the club."

Higginbotham's departure frees up some room in the budget for a new centre forward and Young hopes to conclude a deal for one of his transfer window targets in the near future.