NEW information has been discovered regarding the uproar surrounding the release of former Rhyl striker Phil Marsh.

The Journal understands that despite claims in regional and national press today (Friday) Marsh was not under contract with the Huws Gray Alliance club when he received the text message stating his release.

He was registered as a player with the second-tier outfit, but the club had no contractual obligation to the player.

The striker spoke to a member of the backroom staff this afternoon and apologised for the incident, per sources.

Marsh, who scored five goals in 20 appearances for the Lilywhites last term, was initially signed by departed director of football Mark Connolly before being deemed surplus to requirements by new boss Eddie Maurice-Jones.

The Manchester United youth product caused a social media stir when he published the text message on Twitter on Thursday.

Speaking to BBC Sport, he said: “I would have respected them more if they called me in face to face but to just get a text - I was shocked. It's pretty bad really.

"New managers sometimes want a fresh start and to bring in their own people. It happens."

The UEFA B Licence coach, who was looking for a new club even prior to the release, has represented Crewe Alexandra, FC United and Blackpool during a 20-club career to date.

Maurice-Jones and Richard Williams-Cooke arrived at the Corbett Sports Stadium last week and have already begun a huge squad overhaul as they look to improve the club’s fortunes following their lowest league finish since returning to the Welsh pyramid system.

The duo led Denbigh Town to a historic second-placed finish behind champions Caernarfon Town last season, and the Lilies are expected to be challenging for promotion alongside the likes of recently demoted Bangor City in the ultra-competitive race for the JD Welsh Premier League.