'Lack of respect' hastened Roberts' exit

Last updated : 25 August 2005 By Simon Head

Iwan: Disappointed with his treatment at Priestfield

"A few things have gone on that have left a bitter taste in my mouth," said Roberts.

"I've come to an agreement with the chairman of Gillingham FootbaIl Club for them to pay the remainder of my contract so I'm no longer a Gillingham player.

"I'm very relieved because it's been a tough eight months since Andy Hessenthaler stepped down.

"I'm 37 years old, been in the game for 20 years, played over 750 games, scored 239 goals and I just think the way I've been treated is not something you do to someone of my experience.

"I've been shown a total lack of respect by certain people.

"If I'm not going to play again it's a sad ending to my footballing career. I've had a decent career - played for some good clubs and I've had the best feeling any footballer can have by playing for his country.

"I've played against West Germany, Argentina and Brazil. People can't take that away from me.

"Coaching is now a part of the game I wouldn't mind getting in to - I've definitely got something to offer.

"I've just done the first part of my Uefa A licence in Aberystwyth and I've got to go and get some experience and do all the coursework before I go back next year to finish the final assessment.

"I've learned a lot of good things over the last 20 years and if I'm totally honest I've learned over the past eight months how not to treat people.

"I'm also enjoying all the media work I've done for Sky and BBC Wales and maybe if the chance came to do a little more I wouldn't mind doing that either."