DARLINGTON goalkeeper Tommy Taylor has announced he's leaving the club - leaving Quakers in the market for a senior shot-stopper this summer.

Taylor played 126 times in three seasons at Blackwell Meadows, having signed from Buxton in 2021.

The former Farsley and Scarborough man spent two seasons as Darlington's first choice keeper but lost his place twice this term, first when Josh Gowling signed David Robson on loan from Hull, and then when Matty Young joined from Sunderland.

Young arrived when Taylor was out injured but the Sunderland teenager kept the gloves after a string of outstanding displays.

"After three seasons at Darlington, my time there has now come to an end," Taylor wrote on X.

"I am proud to have played 126 (100 of them consecutively) games for such a big club.

"Massive thank you to everyone who’s fully supported me during my time at the club. Some will be happy to see me go but just know I gave my all every time I pulled on the shirt.

"Massive thank you to Alun Armstrong, Darren Holloway and Jim Provett for giving me the opportunity to join the club in the first place.

"Massive well done to Steve Watson and Terry Mitchell for what they achieved since coming to the club too.

"The club is in good hands under their guidance. I’m gutted my injury meant I couldn’t play much under them but I wish them and the club all the best for the future."

Taylor's exit and Young's return to Sunderland leaves 20-year-old Harvey Kelly as the only keeper on Darlington's books.

Strengthening between the sticks this summer is now a top priority for boss Watson and his assistant Mitchell.

Taylor follows Ben Liddle through the exit door at Darlington, with the former Middlesbrough midfielder having informed Quakers he intends to move on this summer when his contract comes to an end.

Liddle played 66 times for Darlington after joining from Bristol Rovers two years ago.