John Baird has admitted it was a huge wrench leaving Raith Rovers to move to Championship rivals Queen of the South.
The 28-year-old joined the Kirkcaldy side for his second spell at the club in January after leaving Partick Thistle.
The striker helped Grant Murray’s side ease any relegation play-off fears and then wrote himself into the club’s history books by netting the extra-time winner in the Ramsdens Cup Final against Rangers in April.
Raith were keen for him to stay at Stark’s Park but Baird admits the security of a two-year deal at Palmerston proved too strong to resist.
He said: “It was definitely a big wrench to leave Raith 100%. I had to think long and hard about it as I have strong feelings for the club and I really enjoyed my time there.
“I had a lot of good times with the club, especially at the cup final which was an unbelievable day for . . ….. .0 everyone connected with Raith Rovers.
“However, Queen of the South manager Jim McIntyre made it clear he really wanted me to join his side and offered me a two-year deal.
“It was nothing to do with finances, it was the length of contract and the stability it offered that swung it for me.
“Jim had tried to sign me two or three times before and he has been on at me for the last five weeks. I am 28 now with a young family and the security was important.
“I am glad to get my future sorted and I will now look forward to pre-season with my new team-mates, although to be honest, I know most of the lads in the dressing-room anyway.
“However, I want to wish everyone at Raith all the best for next season. And I just hope they don’t give me pelters when I am back at Stark’s Park!”