WARREN Cummings departed Dean Court and then summed up his 10 years with Cherries by saying: I had the time of my life.

The club captain reflected on his time in Dorset after yesterday being told that the club had opted not to renew his contract.

Cummings, who revealed he was “hurt” to learn of his fate in a brief phone call from boss Paul Groves, played more than 300 games for Cherries.

The Scotsman spent much of his Cherries career as first-choice left-back and twice featured in promotion-winning teams.

Cummings admitted he had feared for his future after joining Crawley Town on loan late last season.

But despite the manner of his exit, he insisted he still had fond memories.

Cummings told the Daily Echo: “I played quite a bit at the start of last season but then other players came in and you can see the signs.

“I definitely think I have got something to offer at League One level and it is just a shame that it won’t be at Bournemouth.

“I understand how football works. I have had 10 amazing years there, met some amazing people and had some fantastic times.

“I had a couple of promotions and the fans have been outstanding with me. I think it will be the best part of my life, without a doubt.

“I saw a lot change and a lot of comings and goings. I have been part of some amazing squads and some not-so-good squads.

“I had a great rapport with the fans and they have always been fantastic for me.

“The club have been great, I have had some good managers and worked with some great people. I can’t speak highly enough of the club.

“Hopefully, the club will get where they want to get to because the potential is there.”

Cummings, though, said he was disappointed after claiming Groves had delivered the news in a short telephone conversation. He revealed he had contacted Eddie Mitchell to air his views on the subject.

Cummings said: “I think it was more than disrespectful and I was a bit hurt to be told in a 30-second phone call after 10 years at the football club.

“I think it is unprofessional to be done like that. Someone who has been there six months would deserve a face-to-face meeting, let alone someone who has been there for 10 years.

“He (Mitchell) understood and I think he is going to take it up with them. It is just a shame. I saw it coming but it is still not a nice way to find out, but that is football.”

Cummings also confirmed that he would be returning to Dean Court for a testimonial match in the near future.

He added: “A testimonial was agreed about a year ago. That will be a nice farewell for me.”