CARL Mutch is the latest player to be released from his contract at Weymouth.

The 21-year-old striker has been told he no longer figures in manager Steve Claridge's plans at the Wessex Stadium.

Mutch's departure comes hot on the heels of Mark Kenway and Paul Gadsby who had their deals cancelled by mutual consent in December.

Claridge said: "When I came to Weymouth I saw some real potential in Carl and that's why I offered him a contract. Unfortunately it's not worked out the way we planned and so we've

decided to part company.

"He's a good lad with plenty of ability and I wish him well in his search for another club."

Mutch, whose first team opportunities at Weymouth were limited to the odd appearance on the substitute's bench this term, is now attracting interest from Portland, Dorchester and Bridport.

Blues joint caretaker boss Barry Lawley said: "Carl's been in touch with me and I've invited him to come training. If he can prove his worth to us then I'm sure we can come to some arrangement with a view to him being part of out set-up next season.

"He's one of those strong, aggressive forwards who can cause defences all sorts of problems and it would good to have him on board at Portland."

Magpies second team manager Phil Simkin said he would also be very interested in bringing Mutch to the Avenue Stadium.

"We couldn't offer him terms at the moment, but I'd be very happy to give him the chance to earn himself something as other lads have done here," said Simkin.

"With Martin Shepherd gone, Warren Byerley getting involved with the first team now and Aaron Turner only around short term we are short of strikers, so it would be timely to get someone else in. Carl's definitely got a bit about him and I'm looking forward to hearing from him."

Meanwhile, the most likely place for Mutch to be guaranteed first team football straight away is with Bridport in the Screwfix Direct Premier Division.

Bees boss Bob Russell added: "We're definitely interested. I know a bit about Carl and people I have spoken to say he's technically a good player.

"From what I can make out he has some useful qualities and could be just the type of player Bridport need."