Benin international Boco was a popular figure at Accrington (Getty Images)

The 22-year-old has been away on Africa Cup of Nations duty with Benin and, following talks, the player and the club agreed to part company amicably.

Stanley manager John Coleman told BBC Radio Lancashire: "He went home [to France] last season with an injury.

"And I think that was the start of him being homesick, he felt lonely here."

Boco joined Stanley in 2005 and helped Stanley win the Conference title before scoring their first goal in the Football League for over 40 years against Barnet a year later.

We did what was best for everyone concerned Accrington boss John Coleman

Coleman said: "I thanked him and gave him a hug. He's been vital to where the club finds itself today. When he first came he was exciting, a breath of fresh air, someone who I think will be missed."

Born in France, Boco came over to England and impressed the Stanley manager in a friendly match against Morecambe. However, a back injury forced him out of the team last season and Coleman has said that is where the problems started.

"He's a lovely lad and deep down I want the best for him and you don't want to see people upset and you don't want to be contributing to that. We did what was best for everyone concerned really."