The striker, who finished last season at United's top goalscorer with 11, has ended his two season association with the club to join Ryman Premier League play-off hopefuls Wealdstone. United boss Garry Haylock released 11 players at the end of their first season in the top-tier of non-league football but was hopeful of retaining Fitzgerald's services.
However, the Hillingdon-born hit-man said he was unable to commit to United because of their plans to go full time.
The 30-year-old is enjoying his relatively new day job as a gasman – he works for a plumbing and heating firm in Ruislip Manor, the area where he will play his football next season.
“I have got a good job and while I would have loved to have stayed at Hayes & Yeading the money was just not there,” said Fitzgerald. “Unfortunately things did not work out and I have moved on. At my age I want to be playing regularly and I have got bills and a mortgage to pay. With the club going full-time it would have meant me cutting my day job down to two or three days a week, which is not feasible.”
The former Watford and Brentford star secured hero status at Church Road with several goals in the 2008/09 season play-off semi final and final. And while he is sad to to leave the club Fitzgerald insists they can build on last season's 17 th place despite wholesale changes to the squad.
United manager Haylock has tore apart his squad and is looking for young, athletic players to help him fulfil his desire to see the club become an established top ten side.
“With so many other clubs cutting their budgets the power now lies with them (United),” added Fitzgerald. “There are so many players out there and while Hayes & Yeading might not be their first choice as they look for so-called bigger clubs I am sure Garry will get the players he wants at the right time.
“Of course he will want to get them in sooner rather than later in order for them to gel but I think they will be absolutely fine next season.”
