Bosvelt: Why I'm leaving

Paul Bosvelt has explained his reasons for quitting Man City to join Heerenveen.

The Dutchman is returning to his homeland in the summer after agreeing a two-year deal with Heerenveen.

He will join the Eredivisie side on a free transfer, subject to passing a medical, once his City contract has expired.

City boss Stuart Pearce has acknowledged his surprise at Bosvelt's decision but understands why the 35-year-old is going back to Holland.

Bosvelt admits the delay in appointing a permanent successor to Kevin Keegan is a factor behind his decision to leave The City of Manchester Stadium.

The midfielder also concedes he is joining Heerenveen as there is a greater guarantee of regular first team football.

"When Kevin Keegan was here I got an offer for half a year," Bosvelt told the club's official website.

"When Keegan left Stuart Pearce explained that he didn't know what was happening about his own job so he had to leave all contract talks until the summer.

"I thought that was fair but he also said as a Bosman I could look around and that is what I did.

"At this stage of my career I need to be seriously involved playing in a side on a regular basis.

"Heerenveen have shown me they are not worried about my age even though I am not as quick as in the early days."