CAPTAIN Ellis Deeney has been sold to Tamworth after joint-manager Carl Heeley questioned his commitment to Worcester City’s cause.

The 24-year-old, who joined the Blue and Whites four years ago, was substituted for the first time this season last Saturday following a poor display against Corby.

It is believed the ex-Aston Villa trainee stormed down the tunnel after making way for Connor Gater on 78 minutes with City trailing 1-0.

In a statement by the club, Heeley said he was “very disappointed” with Deeney’s actions and said it was clear he wanted to leave the club, who are two places above the relegation zone in Vanarama National League North.

Deeney, who has made 32 appearances for City this season, would have been a free agent in the summer.

However, after agreeing a deal with league rivals Tamworth, Worcester will now receive a nominal fee plus a 20 per cent sell-on clause should he be transferred again.

Heeley, who has handed the captaincy to Danny Jackman, said Deeney had been a “solid performer” over the seasons.

But he admitted his form had dipped and felt he did not want to stay to help City climb clear of the drop zone.

“We will always be grateful for his loyalty when most of his team-mates left the club at the end of the St George’s Lane era,” he said.

“He has struggled for form of late and not been his normal self and we were all very disappointed in his actions after being substituted.

“We discussed the situation on Monday and it was clear Ellis did not want to be at the football club. He felt he needed a change hence the transfer being made.

“It is disappointing to lose a player who has led us to some great memories over the past two seasons but we now require every single player to be committed to the same cause of climbing the table.”

He added: “We would like to wish Ellis the best of luck with his future career and thank Tamworth for the professional way they have concluded the deal.”

The money from the deal could open up the opportunity for City to make a permanent signing with Heeley admitting he had “several irons” in the fire.

Meanwhile, Worcester have extended West Brom keeper Ethan Ross’ loan deal until the end of the season.

The 18-year-old gifted Corby a 2-1 victory with a late own goal but Heeley said he had been impressed with his maturity.

“I have certainly come across players who have been reluctant to put their hand up when they have made a mistake,” he said.

“But that was one of the first things he did and said he would work hard to make sure it didn’t happen again.

“He has got a bright future, so we are delighted for him to stay.”