BBC SPORT | Football | My Club | Southampton | Oakley set for Southampton exit

Matthew Oakley is set to leave Southampton after the free agent rejected a new contract offer.

The midfielder, 28, failed to return to pre-season training on Tuesday and wanted a longer deal than the one-year contract offered by Saints.

Boss George Burley told the club website: "Matt is moving on. He called me Wednesday morning and said he has decided not to sign.

"Under the Bosman freedom of contract we have to respect that decision."

Burley added: "He wanted a longer contract for himself and his family and I wish him all the best."

The 28-year-old is the club's longest-serving player, having come through the ranks at the club.