CHERRIES’ development squad captain Ben Greenwood has announced his departure from the club.

The 21-year-old exits five years after Cherries plucked him out of non-league, where he was playing for Fleet Spurs.

Greenwood, who can play left-back or centre-back, helped Cherries’ development squad win the Hampshire Senior Cup and Central League Cup, before signing his first professional contract in July 2021.

He then began getting some involvement with the first team, and has regularly trained with them and featured in pre-season friendlies.

The Republic of Ireland youth international made one competitive appearance for Cherries, playing 89 minutes of an EFL Cup clash at Norwich City under Scott Parker in August 2022.

After a 2-2 draw, Cherries progressed via a penalty shootout.

During his time on the books at Cherries, Greenwood spent time out on loan at Wimborne Town, Poole Town, Weymouth and Eastleigh.

Speaking about Greenwood in December, Cherries head coach Iraola said: "Ben has been with us from pre-season.

“He has been training really well.

“I think he has to improve and he has to use this training against this kind of opposition.

“When you are covering our wingers in training, I think it is a good learning process for him.

“I think he is taking these lessons. If he has to play, I think he is ready.”

Taking to social media to announce his departure from Cherries, Greenwood said: “The end of the start!

“My time at AFC Bournemouth has come to an end.

“After five memorable years I would like to thank all the players and staff for helping me throughout those years and would like to wish them all the best for the future.

“Onto the next challenge.”