ORIENT striker Gary Alexander has revealed his shock decision to turn his back on the O's after more than four years at Brisbane Road was solely for footballing reasons.

The 27-year-old former West Ham trainee had been offered improved terms to stay with the east Londoners, but with the likes of Championship outfit Crystal Palace believed to be trailing his services Alexander thought the time was right to move on.

He said: "I've really enjoyed my time at Orient and I can state that there were no problems with either the contract the club offered me, or with Martin Ling.

"I just felt that I've reached a stage in my career where I want a fresh challenge. So I decided it was time to move on.

"At this moment, I'm not able to comment about the clubs that have shown an interest in me, but I would like to wish both the manager and Orient well for the future.

"I had some really good times there and having helped the club beat relegation with a few goals when I first came here, I was then pleased to be involved in the side that went on to win promotion.

"Of course, last season was a struggle, but I was happy to finish as the top scorer again and also play a part in keeping the club in League One."

Alexander also took time to praise the O's for the progress they have made off the pitch during his time at Brisbane Road and believes - despite manager Ling needing to find ten new players - that the O's can still look to progress next season.

He added: "When I first joined Orient parts of the ground were run down and there was still standing behind one of the goals.

"But while I've been there the club has been transformed with three new stands in an all-seater stadium.

"I'm sure everyone there will be keen to keep moving forward and while the gaffer has got to put together virtually a whole new squad, I'm sure he will be able to attract decent players to the club."