EASTLEIGH striker Steve West has hit back at accusations he reneged on a deal to re-join East Thurrock United.

The much-travelled striker came in for some fierce criticism from Rocks boss Lee Patterson after the pair shook hands on a deal to take West back to Rookery Hill after nearly a year away.

But the ex-Grays and Woking front man turned his back on the deal when Conference South Eastleigh came in with a last minute offer.

Patterson said: "I was under the impression that if you give your word and shake hands on a deal then it is done. That obviously doesn't mean anything with Steve."

But West has hit back saying: "I'm sorry Lee is upset and I can't deny I didn't sign the forms. But Lee did warn me he couldn't be certain about the long term and that the situation at the club might change which wasn't re-assuring.

"Eastleigh came in with a two year deal on very good terms. I have to think about my family and my long term so I had to go with them. I'm sorry but I had to go with the much better, secure deal."

Rocks are in FA Cup second qualifying round action on Saturday and even without West they will fancy their chances of seeing off Maidenhead, who dropped out of the Conference South last season.

But will have to overcome their woeful home form to do that.

They were crushed 3-0 by lowly Folkestone Invicta on Tuesday night and have won just one game at Rookery Hill all season.