STRIKER Bob McHugh says Morton will always have a special place in his heart after he ended his three-year spell at Cappielow.

The 28-year-old made 101 appearances in the blue and white hoops over three seasons, finding the net 30 times in the process.

He scooped the top scorer award the past three seasons running but has now opted to move on.

McHugh says the choice to quit Cappielow was the toughest of his career.

In an emotional exclusive farewell interview, Bob told the Tele: “The club is always going to have a special place in my heart.

"The fans have been excellent with me all throughout my time here and that is one of the main things that’s going to hurt me - I’ll miss them.

“It’s been three years but it feels as if it’s been a lot longer.

“I was only speaking to my wife the other day about it - it feels as if I’ve been here for a good five years plus.

"I love the club.

“I’ll miss the boys, there’s a lot of good lads there and it’s a great dressing room."

McHugh's exit is a big blow to Ton and the Tele understands that the hitman is poised to join another Championship club.

The 28-year-old admitted that he had offers on the table and said he was desperate for a bit of security for his young family as he looks to remain in full-time football.

He said: “I’ve been doing a gas course on the side, but if I could stay full-time that would be an ideal scenario - I’m only 28 so I’ve still got plenty in the tank.

“I feel as if I am in my prime, so I’d like to stay full-time for the foreseeable future.

“It’s been a big decision to make to leave, especially because a lot of teams won't be offering deals to a lot of boys.

"I am really fortunate because I’ve potentially got my best years ahead of me now.

“I’ve had a few offers, which I’m grateful for, because there’s so much uncertainty in the world.

"It's more the security that I’m looking at - I’ve got a young family now so I need to look out for them.

"Unfortunately there’s going to be a lot of boys all over the country looking for jobs when the furlough scheme ends.

"Any offer you do get, you seriously need to consider it for yourself and your family.

“It’s not been an easy decision to go, it’s been a really good three years here – I’ve really enjoyed myself and hopefully I’ve left a wee bit of a legacy behind.

“It’s a good club to be a part of and there’s a lot of good people in the background who work there as well, but I’ve got to think of my family, especially in times like this.

“I’m proud of my goalscoring record in my time here, a goal every three games isn’t too bad.

“It hasn’t been easy at times.

"I think I’ve played under four managers in my three years at the club – there’s been a lot of change, a lot of different opinions and styles of play so it’s been a challenge.

"But I’ll look back on it fondly and I’m really sad that I’m leaving.

“My sister and wife have sent me some of the reaction from fans online and there’s been some really nice stuff said, which has touched me.

“I just had to look out for myself and my family but I really want to say that I appreciate all the support that the fans have given me over the years.

"I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time with Morton and wish everyone all the best in the future."