Guttridge and Harding depart with thanks from the Gaffer
Cobblers boss Aidy Boothroyd has wished departing midfield duo Ben Harding and Luke Guttridge well as they prepare for the pre-season campaign away from Sixfields.
“Luke and Ben did very well for us, they helped us avoid relegation and they got us to a play-off final but it’s my job as the manager to get the best out of the budget," said the Cobblers boss.
“That’s when it becomes a business and with 700 players out of work the cards then become a little bit more stacked in the club’s favour.
“I wanted the two boys to stay which is why I made them both offers but they turned those offers down and we totally understand that.
“In Luke’s case I didn’t think he was going to be as key a player for us as he has been in the past, we’ve got Lewis Hornby coming through, there was a decision to make there and that was reflected in the offer.
“I totally respect both of their decisions, they are both honest genuine guys and I wish them both all the very best for the future.
“I’ve got to make decisions with my head and not my heart and sometimes you have got to freshen things up a bit."