ALEX Rodman says picking Gateshead over Grimsby Town was "a tough decision" – and admits he had other Conference Premier options.
The winger exited Blundell Park at the end of last season, rejecting the chance to stay in Cleethorpes for another campaign.
And after a proposed move to Hibernian fell through, the 27-year-old refused Paul Hurst's advances again – signing for one of the Mariners' promotion rivals instead.
That decision has infuriated some Town fans, especially after Rodman originally stated there was "no chance" of him going to another Conference club.
On becoming Gary Mills' seventh signing of the summer, the wideman attempted to set the record straight.
"It's been a long summer, for one reason or another, and I can't wait to get started at Gateshead," Rodman told Gateshead's official website.
"The deal fell through at Hibs and Grimsby wanted me back, while I had a few other good options in the Conference Premier.
"I had a lot of respect for the manager at Grimsby and it was a tough decision not to go back because I had such a good time there.
"The fans were fantastic and it's a great football club, but I'm really glad to have joined Gateshead, and after assessing all my options I felt this was the best one for me.
"I've played under Gary Mills before and he is a top man. I know how he works and likes to play his football and we have a great relationship.
"He plays football the right way and gets results.
"I have a lot of respect for him, he's a fantastic manager and I'm sure he'll get the best out of me this season."
