Ballymena United boss David Jeffrey confirms departure of 'consummate pro' Lee Chapman

Ballymena United have confirmed the departure of right-back Lee Chapman after the player requested to be released from his contract.

Chapman, who joined the Sky Blues from Carrick Rangers last summer, made 11 appearances for the club and had had found regular game time hard to come by in the second half of the season

The 27-year-old’s last outing came in a 2-1 win at Dungannon Swifts on the final day of the league campaign.

Glentoran winger Conor McMenamin named in Northern Ireland training squad

Ballymena boss David Jeffrey said Chapman had been the “consummate professional” during his time at the Warden Street club.

Gallery: 14 sets of players you never knew were team-mates (FourFourTwo)

He said: “Lee has been most professional and in my lengthy time in football management I’ve rarely come across someone with such a professional approach and attitude.

“His commitment and hard work were always evident to see and whilst he was unfortunate to suffer some niggling injuries, when he was fully fit he was pushing for selection.

“We couldn’t speak more highly of Lee and wish him only the very best for his future. How he applies himself on and off the pitch is a credit to him and his family.

“His desire to be the very best means that another club will benefit from a young man hungry to play.”