Charlie Austin has reacted to his second departure from Swindon Town in a social media post. 

The prolific striker was revealed as one of 11 players whose contracts would not be renewed for next season when the club revealed its retained list on Thursday.

Austin began his professional career at Swindon before going on to play for Burnley, Queens Park Rangers, Southampton, West Bromwich Albion, QPR again, and Brisbane Roar before he made a hero's return to the County Ground in December 2022. 

He made 65 appearances during his second spell at the club, scoring 19 goals - including a brace in what we now know was his final appearance as Town drew 3-3 with Morecambe on Saturday. 

Appearing to be a little surprised by the news, Austin posted a statement on Instagram addressing his departure and how thankful he was for the second opportunity. 

He said: "Well...It seems my time at Swindon Town has come to an end...
It was an absolute pleasure to play back at my first professional club, to have the privilege of being captain and to score my 200th career goal in red.

"The lads have been amazing, I enjoyed playing with you all and I've made some great friends this time, friendships that will stand the test of time and football. I hope you boys know even though I'm not there on the pitch I am always there off it!

"Swindon is a club I hold close to my heart, I watched games there as a child with friends and family, as did my wife, it is where I was born, and I hope it was clear that whenever I put the shirt on I always said and did what I believed was best for the club(even if at times it was controversial). I was always honest -that's because I care.

He added: "Thank you Clem [Morfuni, owner] for giving me the opportunity to come back. I hope the great club you envision, and the great club we all know Swindon can be returns as soon as possible .

"To the fans, thank you for all your support during this stint and my last. You have and always have been amazing fans, who dig deep and support the team even when things are rough- I know a few never shook the anger of me leaving the first time, but just like anyone, it was natural I wanted to progress in my career and thankfully it paid off."

He finished by saying: "As you saw Saturday, there's plenty of life in the old dog yet!! 32 over and out."