Rocker Matt Walker has spoken out to silence rumours surrounding his exit from Morrissey's backing band, insisting he's "grateful" for the six years he spent on the road with the star.
The former The Smiths frontman revealed earlier this month (Jun12) that drummer Walker had quit following a gig in Stockton, California last month (May12).
His shock exit sparked frenzied speculation online that he had fallen out with the Panic singer - but the former The Smashing Pumpkins percussionist has now reached out to fans to dismiss the rumours.
In a statement, he writes, "For the last six years I have had the honor and privilege to play drums for Morrissey. He is one of the last true and uncompromising artists and will always be an inspiration. However, for numerous reasons, the time has come for me to relinquish my post.
"It has been a sincere pleasure to perform with this band before the most passionate and dedicated fans in the world - great music is nothing without an audience to love and embrace it. I know few are fortunate enough to experience such a fantastic voyage, and I am grateful for it."
But Walker hinted there may still be more to his resignation, adding on Twitter.com, "Just posted a statement... not really possible to sum it all up but it's a start."