by Matthew Panting

Departing Gillingham keeper Simon Royce hopes the fans will understand why he left Priestfield last week.

Royce turned down the chance of staying at Gillingham to take up a goalkeeper coaching role at League 1 Brentford.

It means he leaves Priestfield after three years at the club – two relegations, one promotion – and more than 100 appearances.

"I look back on it with fondness," said Royce. "I like to think I had a great rapport with the fans.

"I always gave 100 per cent and I’d like to thank them for the support they gave me.

"To the Gillingham fans, I’m not jumping ship. I’m trying to further my career and have a family to think about.

"If I’d had a two-year contract then I would have stayed."

Royce (pictured) dismissed suggestions that money had been a key factor in his decision.

Brentford have given him a coaching contract which means he can be fast-tracked through his coaches badges in the next 12 months and become a key part of their backroom staff.

Royce added: "It wasn’t a financial thing at all. With Gillingham, it was a playing contract, with the coaching as well.

"The Brentford one was more coaching. I’ll be 39 in September. I haven’t played since December, so I have to be realistic about it. At first I was going to turn it (the coaching) down but this is a great opportunity for me."

Will Gills miss Royce? Have your say below.