STRIKER Michael Gash has refuted claims from Kidderminster Harriers manager Gary Whild that his fitness levels weren’t good enough.

The 28-year-old, who scored 24 goals in 70 appearances for the Aggborough club, this week had his contract cancelled by mutual consent.

Whild told a Kidderminster fans’ forum that Gash, who was sent on loan to Nuneaton Town after falling down the pecking order and to reduce the wage bill, wasn’t pulling his weight.

He added: “If you look at Michael’s club record he starts well and then fades.

“He’s got to go and get some games under his belt and get fit because he has a young family to look after.”

But the former Cambridge United hitman said: “I am a player who always gives 100 per cent and I hope the fans saw that.

“Sometimes this happens in football, one moment you’re flying and then you’re not in a manager’s plans.

“I wanted to go out on loan and get some games under my belt but it was difficult at Nuneaton, who are obviously fighting near the bottom of the table.

“I will have to sit down and plan what to do next. I am sure clubs will be interested in signing me but I have to work out what’s best for my family.”

Gash says he leaves the Aggborough club with happy memories, the pick of which was scoring in the 3-2 FA Cup third round replay victory at Peterborough United 12 months ago.

“I am gutted to be leaving but sometimes you have to move on,” he said.

“I have so many happy memories from my time at Kidderminster and I have made friends for life at the club.

“I joined at a really great time, Harriers were flying and I just wanted to help them reach the Football League.

“The greatest moment in my football career was scoring against Peterborough.”