[Mighty T.A.L.]

Belmadi released by Saints

Algerian midfielder Djamel Belmadi has been released by Southampton.

Belmadi is out of contract at St Mary's and Saints manager George Burley has decided not to offer him fresh terms.

Belmadi, who joined Southampton from Al Ittihad in August 2005, missed a large chunk of this season following knee surgery.

He returned to play a part in Southampton's bid for promotion, but could not prevent them from losing out in the play-offs to Derby.

Explaining his decision, Burley admitted that he was happy with Belmadi as a footballer and as a person, but had to let him go because of his fitness problems.

"He has tremendous ability, there is no doubting that, and he's a smashing pro and a great lad to work with," said Burley.

"But he has struggled with injuries and has not played enough games.

"It was a very tough decision but we have to move on and we will not be renewing his contract."

Source: Skysports

Well, I was wrong...