SAM Hart has completed a move to Sutton United, after Oldham Athletic have confirmed they reached a mutual agreement to terminate the left back's contract.

The defender had triggered a one-year extension after completing his first season at Boundary Park, following his arrival on a free transfer from Southend last summer under then head coach Keith Curle.

But having attracted interest from League Two, with Northampton Town also believed to be interested in the 25-year-old, Hart will continue his career in the Football League.

A statement from Oldham Athletic said: "Oldham Athletic can confirm that an agreement has been reached to allow Sam Hart to be released from his contract.

"The left back, who joined Latics at the start of last season from Southend United, started 33 games in all competitions, in addition to two substitute appearances and one goal.

"Terms have been mutually agreed for Hart to leave the club and enable him to continue his football elsewhere.

"Everyone connected with the club would like to thank Sam for his services and wish him the very best for the future."

Hart went on to become Sutton's first signing of the summer in penning a two-year deal.

Manager Matt Gray said: ''I'm delighted to bring Sam to the club. He's a good defender who likes to get forward, and he'll support our wingers and get crosses into the box.

"I'm looking forward to him providing competition for Rob Milsom at left back and welcome him to the squad.''

Although Hart has suffered back-to-back relegations from League Two, he was one of Oldham's better and most consistent performers last season, making 35 appearances. His only goal of the season helping to secure a dramatic win over his old club, Port Vale.

Hart had recently returned to the side after missing almost three months through injury.

He was a virtual ever present for the remainder of the campaign, but due to accumulated bookings crucially missed home games against Sutton and Mansfield through suspension. A losing streak stretched to six games, which damaged Latics' survival chances.

During the game in which he picked up his 10th booking of the campaign, Hart also missed a penalty which would have made it 1-1 against high-flying Exeter City, but Latics went on to lose the game 2-0, in the fourth game of that run of defeats.

The 25-year-old, who hails from Bolton emerged through Liverpool's youth ranks, and spent three years with Blackburn Rovers, but made only seven senior appearances.

Hart had loan moves to Rochdale, Southend and Shrewsbury before returning to Southend on a free transfer in November 2020.