FORMER Liverpool utility player Steve Harkness has left Nationwide Conference club Chester City by mutual consent.
Harkness, who joined City from first division Sheffield Wednesday at the beginning of the season, turned in some impressive performances during his short spell at the Deva Stadium but has missed the last four league games due to an ankle injury.
The 32-year-old is keen to return to the Football League and has recently been watched by a couple of North West clubs.
Chester manager Mark Wright paid tribute to his former Anfield team-mate last night, saying: "Steve has done exceptionally well for us and I would like to publicly thank him for the contribution he has made to Chester City.
"Steve has a number of business interests he's keen to pursue and he would also like to return to the Football League in a playing capacity." Harkness has been troubled by various injuries during the past couple of years but is now nearing full fitness following the recent ankle injury he sustained at Chester.
City are expecting the largest crowd of the season tomorrow when Conference leaders Yeovil Town visit the Deva Stadium. City, who are third, will be without defenders Wayne Hatswell and Kevin McIntyre through suspension, but new signing Daryl Clare, who joined the club from Boston United, will make his debut.
