Striking star Drew Roberts has questioned the ambition of St Neots Town after announcing his departure from the club.

Roberts has turned down an offer to remain at the Premier Plus Stadium for a third season.

The 32 year-old, top scorer at Southern League Premier Division level in four successive campaigns between 2011 and 2015, is thought to be attracting interest from other Step 3 clubs.

Writing on his Twitter account, Roberts admitted: “After a lot of consideration, I sadly won’t be playing my football at St Neots Town next season.

“It is not a decision I have taken lightly, but I feel it is not now the same club I signed for two years ago.

“There has been a shift in direction, and maybe in ambition, and that is what my decision is based on.

“It is nothing to do with finances or management, but I’m going to sign for a club where I think I have the best chance of being successful.”

Roberts fired 31 goals in 51 appearances for St Neots in all competitions during a 2014/15 campaign which ended with an agonising play-off final defeat at Truro City.

He then missed the opening three-and-a-half months of last term after suffering a knee injury in pre-season which required surgery. He scored seven times in 25 games after returning to full fitness.

Roberts added: “I’ve had a thoroughly enjoyable two seasons despite missing a lot of last year through injury – and I’ve also met some first-class people at a first-class club.

“I’d especially like to thank the staff and the fans with whom I had an unbelievable rapport. I appreciate all their support.”

Joint Saints boss Andy Davies is disappointed to see the frontman depart and admits that attracting a prolific striker to the Premier Plus Stadium is a summer priority.

He said: “It’s no secret we tried to keep Drew at the club and we offered him the best deal we possibly could, but he has his reasons for choosing to move on.

“We need to provide stability both financially and in terms of our playing style so there has been a change of direction, but the certainly doesn’t mean there is a lack of ambition.

“We feel we can compete at this level and we are pleased with how our recruitment process is going, but bringing in a proven goalscorer is a priority.”