Joe Roach broke his silence on his controversial Dean Court departure and insisted: “I did NOT wish to leave AFC Bournemouth.”

In a statement exclusively issued to the Daily Echo, the influential youth coach expressed his sadness at exiting Cherries after 10 years with the club.

Fans reacted angrily on Thursday to the news that Roach and Cherries had parted company. He had become a popular figure after Cherries earned well in excess of £1million in transfer fees from players he had mentored.

Last week’s developments came just months after centre of excellence chief Shaun Brooks had been elevated to the role of head of youth, a position previously held by Roach.

Chairman Eddie Mitchell reported on Thursday that Roach had decided to leave and said there was “no real explanation” for his exit.

But Roach said: “Contrary to speculation, I did not wish to leave AFC Bournemouth.

“The club has been part of mine and my family’s life for 10 years.

“Both my son and partner are Cherries fans and I have deep personal roots in the area.

“It is apparent that the club is moving in a particular direction and it was felt that it was my time to move on.

“It is with a heavy heart that I leave and I would like to use this opportunity to thank all the support I have received from fans and staff.

“The messages of goodwill from people in the game, supporters and players past and present, including those who did not get professional contracts, has been really moving.

“Moving into what would have been my testimonial year and in many respects a milestone in my career, makes this decision even harder.”

Roach said he was “indebted” to former Cherries boss Sean O’Driscoll, who appointed him in 2001. He also hailed the “fantastic partnership” the club established with Brockenhurst College during his time in charge.

Roach, who qualified as an FA Advanced Licence coach in 1985, holds the UEFA A Licence and helped the likes of Eddie Howe, Jason Tindall and Neil Moss earn their badges.

Roach, who dedicated his Cherries career to his daughter Nicola, added: “To have had the opportunity to head up the youth section, manage the reserves and the first team, in a caretaker and assistant manager capacity, has provided me with great experience for the future. As they say ‘age is no barrier’ as I look to my next challenge.

“I wish the club, Lee and Steve, the first team squad, the youth department staff, parents, players and the fantastic supporters all the success in the coming season and beyond.”

In a statement issued on Thursday, Mitchell said: “It is with regret that Joe Roach has decided to leave the club after 10 years’ loyal service and much success.

“We as a club, and myself personally, would like to thank Joe for his service to AFC Bournemouth and we would all like to wish him well for the future.

“There is no real explanation for Joe’s departure. My own opinion is that Joe has reflected on the speed of which the club has changed and is at an age where he felt he would be more comfortable with new challenges.

“I know there will be some angry and dismayed supporters out there and I have already received many unjustified emails. I think it is very unfair to point the blame at anyone.”