Darren Moss today spoke of his disappointment at ending his second spell at Shrewsbury Town – and claimed he would have had to take a 40 per cent pay cut to remain at the Prostar Stadium.

The full-back rejected a one-year deal to remain at Town last week, and has since been heavily linked with a move to League Two rivals Morecambe.

And he has now disclosed that the finances of the offer were the deciding factor in him looking elsewhere.

“I’m devastated to be leaving Shrewsbury because I was really looking forward to another season there,” said the 28-year-old.

“After Christmas I thought I was one of the most consistent players last season so the 40 per cent pay cut offer was really disappointing because I felt I took my chance when the gaffer (Paul Simpson) gave it me.

“I’ve got a family to think about so I’ve had to look elsewhere and move on.”

Moss was full of praise for Simpson during the 15 months of the manager’s reign. “The gaffer has been brilliant to me,” added the former Welsh under-21 international.

“He has been straight with me from the moment I came into the club and I think Shrewsbury have a very good manager there.”

Simpson insisted he was keen for Moss to remain as part of his plans.

“When I came into the club I inherited quite a few players on long contracts,” said the Town boss.

“My job is to assemble a squad within a budget. Darren was on a very good contract. I wanted him to stay and that’s why I offered him a contract on what we felt were reasonable terms.

“I’m disappointed Darren chose not to accept it but that’s his prerogative. We wish him well for the future and we move on.”

Simpson has already moved to fill the void created by the departure of Moss by swooping for Falkirk full-back Dean Holden.

And he is now waiting to see if Ben Davies and Chris Humphrey commit to new contracts before Wednesday’s return to pre-season training.

By JAMES GARRISON