Ibehre admission after Walsall exit

Departing Walsall striker Jabo Ibehre admits the lure of a fresh challenge convinced him to leave the club.

Departing Walsall striker Jabo Ibehre admits the lure of a fresh challenge convinced him to leave the club.

The striker's free transfer to MK Dons was rubber-stamped this morning after a week of speculation and the 26-year-old has signed a two-year deal, after rejecting a new contract with the Saddlers.

Ibehre insists he loved his year at the Banks's Stadium, but felt he had to join Roberto Di Matteo's side.

He said: "It's been an absolute pleasure. I've enjoyed my time and it was a fantastic place to come and play football.

"The supporters took to me straight away and I really enjoyed working with Chris Hutchings and Martin O'Connor. But the fans will ask 'if he was so happy then why is he leaving?' which is understandable.

"Sometimes though, when you are happy and settled you need to flip that and take on a new challenge.

"I did that last summer after a long spell at Leyton Orient so, when the chance to go to MK Dons came up, I felt that it was a good move for me."

The popular hitman, who scored 11 goals in 43 appearances in his season at the Banks's, also hailed the Saddlers fans but explained he wanted to move closer to his native London.

He said: "Being closer to my family and friends is important to me. I'm grateful for the way the fans took to me and I will hold them close to my heart. They are fantastic and were always excellent to me.

"I appreciated their support and am grateful to Walsall for the opportunity they gave me."

Ibehre is now eyeing a promotion challenge next season, after the Dons were beaten in the League One play-off semi-final by Scunthorpe last month.

He said: "With a couple of additions over the summer we have a great opportunity to go one step further.

"I want to learn and hopefully I can keep doing that."

Saddlers boss Hutchings added he respected Ibehre's decision.

He said: "Jabo said that he thoroughly enjoyed his time at the club, but felt that a move to MK Dons was right for him."