Darren Patterson could not hide his frustration after striker Matt Green - who had verbally accepted a deal at Oxford United - instead signed a two-year contract with Torquay United.

The U's manager, not normally one to talk in depth about players he has missed out on, felt Green showed the club "little respect".

The former Cardiff frontman, who scored ten times for Oxford while on loan last season, proved himself as a goalscorer with a future.

However, the only doubt about Green was his fitness - he struggled with a knee problem throughout his time at United and was unable to train every day.

Nonetheless, it is the way that he has shunned United that has left Patterson upset.

"We were prepared to take a gamble on Matt and had made what we felt was a very fair offer considering the issues with his knees," the U's boss said.

"He never was able to train during the week for much of the time he was with us, and his medical problems had been fairly well publicised.

"The report we had regarding Matt from a top knee specialist wasn't exactly glowing, and that was reflected when we made him our offer.

"There was a little bit of negotiation, but then Matt verbally accepted the offer."

Patterson went on to say the events that followed left him with a sour taste.

"On Saturday, he said he was coming in to sign so we had a meeting set up," he added. "Then he phoned to say he was joining Torquay.

"I've been in the game long enough to not let it affect me personally, but I don't appreciate anyone showing Oxford United so little respect.

"Contrast that to Adam Murray. Adam had had offers from league clubs, but cut short his family holiday to sign a new deal here.

"You can see the commitment and professionalism that we are looking for and expect at this club.

"I'm sure every Oxford fan will agree that we only need players who have their hearts in this club."