Zoko rejects new Carlisle deal

Carlisle will have to take on league one next season without the services of Francois Zoko, who has told the club that he doesn't wish to accept the contract offered to him.

29-year-old Zoko has rejected the new contract as he is hoping to secure himself a club at championship level.

Greg Abbott, as he told the official website, was clearly disappointed by the strikers decision but he leaves with his best wishes: 'I offered him a new contract because I wanted him to stay and I can confirm it was a good deal that was put on the table.

'He's made his decision and from a club point of view we wish him all the best as he goes on his way. He's had a really good time with us but he feels that he has found his feet in English football and he wants to try and play at a higher level if he can. We'll have to wait and see if that works for him because football-wise we have played the type of game which has allowed him to do things his way and to express himself fully.

'We've done a lot for him but I know he thanks us for that, as we thank him in-turn for what he has done for us.

'This is all part of the job and it's now down to me to make sure we replace him and continue to push the club on without him. There is never any bitterness involved when a player notifies you of something like this because you have to respect the decision they make.

'Like I say, he goes away from here knowing we have been a good club for him and we hope he continues to have success. I'm sure he feels exactly the same way about us.'

In a little over 100 games Zoko scored 24 goals for the club at a ratio of about 1 in 4.

Losing Zoko is obviously a disappointment but most fans know that players come and go, how much will the striker be missed though?

Instead of just viewing, why not login (or register as a new member) as well and leave some thoughts on this issue below...

Click here to join in the debate on the club forum.