Defender's loss from Worthing squad is a massive blow

He wants to spend more time concentrating on his work and studies as he forges a teaching career and has decided he cannot commit to the Rebels’ cause at present.

A return to the game and to the team in the future has not been ruled out.

It leaves Worthing boss Adam Hinshelwood assessing his central defensive options and considering adding a replacement for Racin to his squad as they look to keep up their fine start to the Isthmian premier campaign.

Racine’s departure was announced in a club statement that said: “Aarran Racine is taking a short break from competitive football.

“Due to work and study commitments Aarran is taking a short break from playing and coaching football.

“We wish Aarran all the best in his ventures, and hope to see him back at The Crucial Environmental Stadium soon.”

Hinshelwood told the Herald Racine’s loss from the camp was ‘massive’ but he would not dream of opposing the player’s decision.

“He’s a key player and a great lad – when I came to the club he was helping run the team,” Hinshelwood said.

“But he wants to concentrate on other things at the moment and you can’t stand in people’s way. He’ll stay in touch with us and we’ll see what happens.

“We have players in the squad who will look to step up to that position but we may well bring someone in.”