Gary Doherty's surprise departure from Norwich City has prompted mixed reaction among fans. The 30-year-old centre back was released by the club on Friday evening after six seasons and more than 220 appearances at Carrow Road - despite coming third in the supporters' player of the year voting.

Gary Doherty's surprise departure from Norwich City has prompted mixed reaction among fans.

The 30-year-old centre back was released by the club on Friday evening after six seasons and more than 220 appearances at Carrow Road - despite coming third in the supporters' player of the year voting.

And letting the former Republic of Ireland international go has caused consternation for some fans on the Pinkun messageboards.

'Unbelievable,' said grantroederdisaster.

'While I have complete trust in Lambert, releasing our best central defender makes absolutely no sense.

'I must presume we are signing a new central defender cause while (Michael) Nelson been a rock this season, he'll be entering new untried territory next season. (Jens Berthel) Askou isn't as good as Nelson and (Zak) Whitbread must be a concern having not got over his injuries.'

Those thoughts were shared by Glenn Foy.

'I think the decision to release the Doc is an absolute disgrace,' he said.

'I really am fuming. He is one of the first names on the team sheet for next season, along with Holt.'

Meanwhile, Millo said: 'People were laughing earlier in the season when it looked like he was being let go, and he showed up every single one of you who was laughing as a complete mug by being our best defender this season. You can include me in that, he proved me wrong and I'm glad he did.

'I can't understand it if Doc goes and Nelson stays, unless it's about wages, not ability.'

However, other fans are prepared to wait for developments and any signings by Lambert over the summer before deciding whether Doherty's release was a good move.

'I'm disappointed but I trust Lambert knows what he's doing,' said Mister Chops. 'It's likely to be about wages as much as anything.'

And JF said: 'Let's just wait to see what unfolds before making judgement shall we.

'Has Lambert given any reason to doubt his decisions yet?'