Michael Gardyne - I was shocked Ross County didn't offer me a new contract
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Michael Gardyne says he was shocked that he was not offered a new contract to stay at Ross County.
The club's record appearance and goalscorer was one of 10 players who were released by the Staggies on Thursday.
It marked an end to the attacker's association with the club who had been at the Global Energy Stadium in three separate periods.
His third stint saw him play at the club since 2015.
Speaking to BBC Radio Scotland show Sportsound, Gardyne says he was expecting to receive a new contract.
"I was expecting to get a new deal," he said.
"I had not a bad season and a good end to the season and i'm still in good condition.
"It was a wee bit of shock."
Gardyne says he received the news his contract was not being renewed over Zoom call on Thursday.
He said it left a sour taste in his mouth in the manner the club handled the situation.
"Just after getting the news on Thursday, it wasn't nice the way it was done," he said.
"I didn't take it very well and i've just spent the weekend with my kids. "
He added: "We didn't really hear anything for 10 or 11 days and I can't lie it leaves a sour taste hearing on zoom call after 15 seasons in total.
"To end it like that was a bit gutting."
John Hughes stood down as manager of Ross County last week with new boss Malky Mackay officially appointed on Wednesday.
Gardyne says if Hughes was still manager, he thinks he might have had a future at the club.
"I think if John Hughes had stayed, maybe it would have been better for me.
"But we've not been told who made the decisions, so it is what it is."
Gardyne says he will speak with his agent tomorrow to discuss his future and feels he is still capable of playing top flight football.
"I think that I could still do it in the SPL, I finished with a couple of goals against Killie and Motherwell.
"At the same time, I have nothing to prove to Ross County or even to myself."
