Forest Green Rovers chairman Dale Vince says he is owed an apology from Newport County manager Terry Butcher over comments he made over Darren Jones' transfer, reports Stroud News & Journal

Butcher has been sacked
Vince wants an apology out of Butcher

Butcher claimed Jones' return to the New Lawn was financially driven, a claim denied by Vince.

The former England and Rangers defender told County's official website: “We tried our best to keep him, and offered him an increased deal, but sadly despite our best efforts we can’t get anywhere near what he has been offered at Forest Green Rovers.

“As many supporters know, Forest Green Rovers, despite being in the Conference, have a history of being able to offer big deals."

“He had spoken of his wishes to stay at Newport, but obviously he has to put his family first, and the deal he has been offered at Forest Green is unbeatable from our point of view.”

But Vince hit back saying: “While it’s not unusual for some managers to use the budgets of other clubs as excuses for their own shortcomings, what Terry Butcher has said is simply untrue and it’s a slur on a player that deserves better - he should do the decent thing and apologise.”

Jones himself has insisted his return to Forest Green was down to ambition not money. He had wanted to finish his career with his hometown club but contract talks hit a stalemate and the former County captain opted to join Rovers on a one-year deal, which will be extended by a further 12 months based on appearances.

“It wasn’t a case of money and I could have earned far more money from offers in the Football League" said Jones.

“I signed for Forest Green for football reasons and the difference in money is minimal from what I was on at Newport.”

Jones believes Forest Green can challenge next season in the Conference but believes Newport could struggle next season.

“I really thought I would finish my career at Newport" he added, "but talks broke down and it wasn’t to be. I thought the decision to release 13 of my friends after a budget cut was harsh and I don’t think Newport are going to challenge this season.”

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