AFC Wimbledon boss admitted he was left surprised when Adebayo Azeez opted for a move north of the border to Partick Thistle.

The striker, who bagged 14 goals in his 98 appearances for Dons, made the move to the Scottish Premiership side last month after two years at the CRRS.

It has left Ardley admitting they need to sign a centre forward if they are to have the four-man attack options that proved so successful last term.

“I was surprised at his more, but then again in football you learnt that nothing should surprise you,” Ardley said.

“We heard through his agent that a side was interested in him and we wish him the best of luck.

IN PICTURES: After the bus parade, it's down to the hard graft for AFC Wimbledon's Meades

AFC WIMBLEDON: No need to worry, Ardley, the fans are still super excited...

“I think he wanted to make sure he got regular football rather than a bit-part role in League One.”

FIFA rules state that where a professional player under the age of 24 has been offered a new contract by his club and he rejects it to move to another club, compensation is payable.

However, Ardley added: “It’s frustrating because although Ade is under 24, Partick do not have to pay any compensation because they are in Scotland, but that’s FIFA rulings for you.”