Michael Raynes has thanked everyone at Oxford United as the defender appeared to confirm he had left the club.

The Oxford Mail reported this morning the 27-year-old was on the verge of leaving, with Hartlepool United believed to be his likely destination.

United have yet to announce the news, but Raynes has taken to social media this afternoon to say his goodbyes.

He tweeted: "Never tweet about football but just want to say thanks to everyone at #OUFC had a great 2 and a half years, met some amazing people. Been a pleasure."

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The centre back’s days have appeared numbered ever since Chey Dunkley was signed in November.

Raynes has not been named in the match day squad of 18 since, even for FA Cup ties where Dunkley was unavailable.

U’s head coach Michael Appleton said last month the centre back was available to leave.

And the move could happen in time to allow Raynes to make his debut tomorrow.

Speaking earlier this week, Appleton said: “Chey was brought in to bring competition for places at centre half and what’s happened because of that is Raynesey has been forced out slightly.

“I don’t want to stand in anyone’s way, certainly someone at his age and I think he’s at a point now where he’s looking forward to getting back up north.”

Raynes has made 82 appearances for United, scoring two goals.

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