Charlie Horton is to continue his career in the MLS after Leeds United agreed to terminate his contract to allow him to head back to his homeland.
Leeds announced the departure of Horton earlier today, having agreed to the goalkeeper's request to end his deal. Horton needs to return to the United States for family reasons and is full of praise for the way the Whites have handled his situation.
Horton said in a statement: "I would like to say that this is/was purely my decision. The club, owner and coaching staff, especially the Gaffer, stressed that I had an extremely bright footballing future at the club and were disappointed to see me go.
"I would like to thank Mr [Massimo] Cellino and the staff for the understanding and compassion they have shown in respect of my decision to return home to fulfil my responsibilities as the only man in my family."
Horton, who joined Leeds in the summer on a two-year deal from Cardiff City, explained Leeds understood his reasoning for wanting to terminate his contract and he is now focused on continuing his career in the MLS.
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"However, they understood the circumstances and are letting me return home, with the understanding that I will pursue a career in the MLS, much closer to where I am needed."
Horton's departure leaves Leeds short in the goalkeeping department as Ross Turnbull, the experienced understudy to first choice Marco Silvestri, is out with injury.
Young custodian Bailey Peacock-Farrell will now step up to replace Horton and provide cover for Silvestri.
