Glenn Roeder says he had to think long and hard before deciding not to offer Darren Huckerby a new contract.
The winger has been released after four-and-a-half years at Carrow Road, during which he scored 48 goals.
The Norwich manager has told BBC Radio Norfolk rumours that he and Huckerby did not get on were wide of the mark.
"Contrary to reports of negative people who would like to drive a wedge between myself and Hucks, we got on very well," said Roeder.
Huckerby, twice named Norwich City's player of the year, was a favourite with the Carrow Road faithful.
Glenn Roeder paid tribute to the 32-year-old's contribution to since joining the club in 2003, but said he would not have been guaranteed a place in the starting line-up next season.
"Don't be surprised if we see Hucks around the training ground next season"
"It simply came down to that.
"If I didn't think I could guarantee Darren Huckerby a starting position every week when he was fit, I am sure he is not the sort of person that would want to hang around if he wasn't starting every game," the City boss added.
Huckerby has been linked with a move to America to play in MLS, which Roeder believes would be a good idea.
"I told Darren, if you're going to have regrets in life, regret doing things, don't regret not taking an opportunity, and he liked that thought."
Roeder added that Huckerby would be still welcome to use Norwich City's facilities.
"Don't be surprised if we see Hucks around the training ground next season and we look forward to that," Roeder said.
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