Alex John-Baptiste talks to mansfieldtown.net after handing in his transfer request recently.

Alex John-Baptiste has today told mansfieldtown.net that he hopes Stags' supporters understand his decision to try and find a new club.

He told mansfieldtown.net:  "It was a big decision to hand in my transfer request after many happy years at Mansfield Town.  I have thought about nothing else in recent weeks, and it will be an upheaval to leave the Town, my friends and family - but I feel I must do it in order to further my career.

"I will miss the whole atmosphere at the club and the great relationships everyone has with each other.

"I've really enjoyed my time here over the years.  I remember making my debut against Barnsley in 2004 with many members of my family coming up from London to see me play.   It was amazing to finally play for Mansfield."

The 22 year old believes he is capable of playing at a higher level:  "I'd like to think I could play at Championship level.  I have played with the likes of Lee Williamson and Liam Lawrence, who are now plying their trade in the Championship and I don't think I looked out of place when playing alongside those type of players.

"Some people may not agree with that, but to play in the Championship is my current ambition and it is a level which I think I am capable of playing at.

"There are many people I would like to thank for helping me at Mansfield, and they include:  Dutch (Paul Holland), Ivan Hollett, Keith Curle, Peter Shirtliff, Carlton Palmer, Billy Dearden  and Mark Stevenson at the Centre of Excellence who spotted me at local level.."

He added:  "I would like to think that the supporters regard me as an honest player who has always given his best for Mansfield Town in every game."