WEYMOUTH manager Brian Stock believes the loyalty shown by departed star defenders Ash Wells and Stephane Zubar is “very rare”.

Wells left Weymouth for Dorchester after a decade at the Bob Lucas Stadium, while Guadaloupe international Zubar exited after four years.

Stock admitted the decision on both players’ departures was mutual and based on footballing reasons.

“First and foremost, they deserve all the plaudits they’ve received,” Stock said.

“Loyalty in this day and age to stay at a club, particularly Ashley for 10 years, is very rare.

“We look forward to his testimonial next year.

“Hopefully we’ll get a good game for him.

“Obviously with Zubes he’s been a major part of the success, not just on the pitch but off the pitch as well.

“It came to a point where we’re going to have the demands of the National League. Will they be able to play regularly, Saturday-Tuesday?”

Stock added: “Not only that, you have to look at their time away.

“They had to look at if they are going to be a part of this squad.

“They want to get paid a reasonable wage in order for that to be realistic for them to live off, being away from home and missing out on potential work when we travel on Friday.

“There’s a mixture of scenarios we fitted into the mix. We just felt it was the best situation for the club and for them as individuals as well.

“They’ve both left on mutual terms. I wish them all the success.”