Image: Bulent Yontem
Craig Carley has become the latest Hume City player to depart the Broadmeadows-based club in the NPL Victoria off-season.
The former AFC Wimbledon youth aided his side’s cause with seven goals in 13 games since arriving mid-year to help Hume to finals in the NPL.
Carley arrived from Goulburn Valley Suns, where he became one of the region’s highest regarded strikers.
The 31-year-old had scored six goals for the NPL2 outfit before his Hume move, adding to his 2015 tally of 33 and 2014 tally of 14 at his and club’s inaugural season in the top flight.
The former Cobram Victory player-coach, who is based in Shepparton, cited distance and travel as one of the key factors for his departure.
“Great club, Hume, and if it wasn’t so far to travel I would sign for next season. I just can’t travel four times a week from Shepparton – it’s a good two hours each way,” Carley told TCF.
“I absolutely loved it – it was so professional there and good to play at that level again. Apart from carrying the injury the last six weeks of the season I had a great time, everyone at the club were top class, could not say a bad thing about anything.”
However he said no potential suitor – including a possible return to his former club the Suns following the departure of Dan Heffernan – was lined up yet.
“Not sure what the plan is for me next season, I haven’t heard from any club this way so will see – I’ll enjoy the break and keep as fit as I can.”
Carley becomes the third confirmed departure from Hume City including long-time servants Chris Oldfield and Shane Rexhepi, with the club set for considerable turnover under Dean Hennessey.
Thanks to @FCHumeCity for the 2016 season. Travel 4 times a week too much from Shepparton 4 me so new challenge awaits. Great club & people
— Craig Carley (@craigcarley18) September 21, 2016