HEREFORD FC chairman Ken Kinnersley says the club's board of directors trust manager Pete Beadle's judgment on all football matters following the news that captain Joel Edwards has been released.

Many supporters have taken to social media questioning the decision, with Beadle admitting it was the toughest decision he has had to make in his two years at the club.

“Joel has been a hugely important figure for the past two seasons, so there is understandable sadness at his release from the club, however, tough decisions have to be made in football and the Board of Directors trust the manager’s judgement on all football matters," said Kinnersley on the club's official website.

“We all know the qualities Joel has demonstrated on the field, but I would like to thank and pay tribute to him for the fantastic ambassador he has been for Hereford FC off the field.

"It is almost impossible to count the number of events he has attended for the club and the number of presentations he has done.

“He has conducted himself magnificently and we have been very lucky to have him as our captain for the past two seasons.

"I’ve always been particularly impressed by the time and patience he has for our young supporters and there is absolutely no doubt he has proved a huge inspiration to them as ‘one of our own’, and something they can aspire to be.

“Everyone at the club would like to wish Joel all the very best for the future and he should be in no doubt that he will always be guaranteed a warm welcome here at Edgar Street.”

Talking about the decision, Beadle said: “It was the toughest decision I have had to make in my two years in charge, but it’s the right one for the club to move forward as it needs to.

"Joel showed us exemplary commitment and is 100% Hereford FC, but I have to do what I think is right for the team in the long term and cannot let sentiment come into it.

“Joel was the right choice to be the first captain of Hereford FC and he led by example in his attitude and application.

"I want to thank him for his efforts and contribution he has made to the progress of the club and I’m certain he’ll continue to have a good career in the game.”