DANNY Wilson was quick to praise Craig Easton’s contributions to the Swindon Town cause after the midfielder yesterday declined the Robins’ offer of a one-year contract extension.

The Town manager admitted he had hoped the Scot would stay in Wiltshire, despite his lack of first-team opportunities last season, but he did not blame the 31-year-old for making the decision to move on in search of more regular football.

“As disappointed as I am to see Craig go, I completely understand his decision because he wants to play first-team football,” he said.

“And at his age it is very important to be playing regularly so we have to respect his decision.

“Craig has a fantastic attitude, is a fantastic professional and a fantastic person, so he will be greatly missed.

“He won’t have a problem finding first-team football somewhere else, and we wish him all the very best for the future.”

Wilson paid tribute to the positive impact Easton had on the Town side off the pitch during his three-year stay at the County Ground.

And the Swindon boss reiterated how important the former Leyton Orient man was in creating a productive atmosphere in the Robins camp.

“He was brilliant around the dressing room last season even though he wasn’t getting much game time, which is testament to his personality,” he said.

“You can never underestimate the value of that, and he was a very popular member of the squad.”

Meanwhile, Wilson is delighted Michael Timlin has taken up the option to remain at SN1 for the next 12 months.

Despite finding himself in a similar position to Easton over the course of 2009/10, the former Fulham midfielder has chosen to fight for a place in the Town team of 2010/11.

And his manager believes the 25-year-old will provide good competition for places in a talented squad.

“I’m very pleased that Michael has decided to stay on with us, as we rate him highly here,” he said.

“We’re always after strength in depth in the squad here, and Michael gave us that last season.

“He’s been here a while now, and knows the club inside out so will be a very useful player to have for us.

“He’s got a great engine and is an excellent passer of the ball as we all know, and will continue to be an asset for us.”