Cranie to quit Coventry

Martin Cranie has decided to leave Coventry City on a free transfer after rejecting the offer of a new contract at the Ricoh Arena.

Defender wants to stay in the Championship after rejecting new deal

Martin Cranie has decided to leave Coventry City on a free transfer after rejecting the offer of a new contract at the Ricoh Arena. The defender made 120 appearances for the Sky Blues after joining from Portsmouth three years ago and Andy Thorn had been determined to persuade the 25-year-old to stay. However, following Coventry's relegation to League One at the end of last season, Cranie has opted to look for a new challenge. "I wanted to see what was offered but I have always wanted to stay in the Championship," Cranie told the Coventry Evening Telegraph. "Obviously I like it at Coventry but I don't feel it is right for me at this time and I'm going to look elsewhere. "I'm grateful to the club for everything it has done for me over the last three years. I've had a great time but I think it's time for me to look for another club. "The fans have been great with me, as have all the managers I've worked with. I've played in a few positions and this is the first time I have played week in, week out in a settled position and I'm grateful for that."