James Constable gave Oxford United fans the news they were hoping for last night – by refusing to even talk to Swindon Town about a possible move to the County Ground.

And the U’s striker then declared: “I never wanted to leave the football club, it means everything to me”.

Constable had been given permission to speak to the Robins after United accepted a “much-improved” bid from their arch rivals.

But Constable decided that he did not want to start negotiations with Swindon, even though a move there could have reportedly seen his wages almost double.

And last night the striker posted on Twitter just how much Oxford United means to him.

“This has been one of toughest days I have had in my career,” he said.

“Never wanted to leave the football club, it means everything to me!”

United rejected two offers from Swindon last week for their 27-year-old striker, who is known as Beano.

But it was a case of third time lucky as a further offer – believed to be a fee of £250,000 – was accepted by United.

U’s chairman Kelvin Thomas told the Oxford Mail last night: “The club have always said that they will discuss any serious offers with the player.

“The offer to the club, and the offer expected to be made to the player were both very good.

“After discussions with James, the appropriate course of action was taken.

“But on reflection throughout the day, it was decided that James would pass up the opportunity to speak to Swindon.

“It has been a very long and stressful few days, but the club are very happy that James will now be able to train with the first team squad on Friday and be available for selection for the Hereford game on Saturday.”

Thomas added: “It was right to allow him the opportunity to talk to the club, if he wanted to do so.”

Swindon boss Paolo Di Canio made no secret of his desire to land the striker, making his feelings known in August ahead of the derby clash between the two sides.

The Italian said of Constable: “It would be good to bring him here, but I don’t think Oxford will let him go, especially with the rivalry.

“He’s an important player for them. In the last few years he is the one who has scored the goals. He has pace, he is tall, he can score with both feet and his physical presence is massive.”

Those comments backfired as Constable scored twice as Oxford recorded a famous 2-1 victory at the County Ground.

But Di Canio has never given up hope of landing the former Shrewsbury man. Until now.

Swindon Town chairman Jeremy Wray said last night: “Since we were given permission to speak to the player, we have been informed that James Constable does not wish to pursue those talks.

“We respect his decision and will now concentrate on other targets.”

Constable is idolised by the United fans, and scored in both the Conference play-off semi-finals and then again at Wembley as United beat York to reclaim their place back in the Football League in 2010.