"If he had been 28 it might have been different, no disrespect to Richie as he is a model professional.
"But at 32 years of age and the money Hartlepool were offering it was a no-brainer really.
"I can't comment on the fee or wages as we have signed a confidentially agreement with Hartlepool that we won't discuss any financial items with the media.
"I believe they have offered him an excellent package which I am sure is comparable with right at the top level for strikers in our division.
"At his age that was too good a move for him - I don't believe that package would be on offer anywhere else.
"I couldn't have afforded to match it, don't forget we have a 60 per cent cap on salaries here on income.
With the gates and various other things we can't lift players' wages by that significant amount."
"I think that would have been unfair on the player if he could get significantly more money from another club.
"But the terms had to be right for us too. Back in October Hartlepool made an offer for Richie and he went up there and agreed personal terms.
"But the deal moved slightly and I pulled out. There are two parts to every move. The player has to agree and so does his club.
"I know Richie was very fond of Mansfield. But we had been very good for him. He was in Rotherham reserves when we took him on. It is a two-way stream.
"Richie has scored goals - you can't hide that. He has scored six or seven and the rest penalties, though they still need to be scored.
"Now Billy is out looking for a replacement and he will be given money. That is not always in transfer fees and can be towards a larger salary. I know he already has one or two names in mind."