JOHN Crawley has shocked Lancashire by asking to leave Old Trafford with three years of a four-year contract remaining.

Chief executive Jim Cumbes confirmed the England batsman, who was recently replaced as captain after a disappointing season for the Red Rose county, had requested to be released.

"It's never good to have a disaffected player, especially one so early in his contract," Cumbes told The Daily Telegraph.

"These problems can be discussed and, I'm sure, worked out.

"It's sad and a great shame, because John came to Old Trafford as a young lad and has been with us all through his career."

Cumbes said the matter would now be discussed by the chairman Jack Simmons and his general committee.

Crawley, 30, made his county debut in 1990 and has earned 29 England caps on the way to becoming the county's most senior player following the retirement this summer of Michael Atherton.

He would be eligible for a benefit in two years' time - and at least £350,000 - and the reasons behind his decision are as yet unclear.