GARY TEALE has left St Mirren after being overlooked for the manager's position.

The former Scotland winger had been placed in temporary charge for the second half of last season following the sacking of Tommy Craig but could not prevent the Paisley club's relegation to the SPFL Championship.

He was one of five candidates to fill the post on a permanent basis but lost out to Ian Murray who signed a two-year deal after leaving Dumbarton. Teale had a year left on his playing contract but has now left St Mirren by mutual consent. He was part of the side that won the 2013 League Cup, supplying the pass for Isma Goncalves to score St Mirren's first goal in their eventual 3-2 win over Hearts that delivered their first trophy in 26 years.

Chairman Stewart Gilmour offered Teale his best wishes. He said: ""The Club wishes Gary every success in the future and, as has already been stated, Gary will be a good Manager in years to come. The Club appreciate the situation that Gary was left in by taking over somebody else's squad and thank him for all of his dedication and hard work during the season.

"Gary will always be remembered at St Mirren as one of the Cup Winning legends of 2013 and will always be a welcome visitor at St Mirren Park. It has been a very difficult period for Gary but throughout this testing time he has conducted himself with dignity and professionalism."

Teale added: "Although I am disappointed not to continue my years at St Mirren Park, I would like to thank everyone associated with the Club for their support over the years. I leave behind a lot of good friends and wish Ian and the Club every success in the future. I have thoroughly enjoyed every minute of my time here as a player none more so than 17th March 2013 which was the highlight of my career."