Armando Dobra leaves Chesterfield
Armando Dobra has sprung a summer shock by leaving Chesterfield to join Leyton Orient.
The attacking midfielder had been expected to be on board for another tilt at the top end of League Two next season but has instead opted for a new start a division higher in East London.
Dobra still had a year on his contract to run having signed a fresh two-and-a-half year deal early last year when other clubs were showing interest in him. Chesterfield have received an undisclosed fee.
Manager Paul Cook said: “I’m sure all supporters will be disappointed, as will the staff, to see Armando leave.
"We’re all so delighted for him to get his move, and happy for him it’s a move back down south to where his family are based.
"They have followed him so loyally in his four years here. We wish him every success at Leyton Orient and he’ll always be welcome back.”
Dobra’s departure leaves a sizeable hole to fill.
The 25-year-old has been one of the Chesterfield’s most prominent players since joining from Ipswich Town four years ago.
He helped the Spireites win promotion from the National League and then twice reach the League Two play-offs.
Capped by Albania, he made 165 appearances in all competitions, scoring 39 goals.
He was Player of the Year, Players’ Player of the Year and 1866 Sport Player of the Year in the first season back in the EFL when he turned out more than 50 times and scored 13 goals.
Even when injury shunted him to the sidelines from October to January last season, he still made a sizeable impression. He chipped in with five goals and four assists and both might had been in double figures but for his time out.
Dobra said he had had four “amazing” years at Chesterfield and thanked everyone, particularly the fans, for their “incredible” support.
He added: "I’m proud to have worn the shirt and will always have great memories of my time here, so thank-you and all the best for the future. Up the Spireites.”