MIDFIELDER Craig Rocastle has left Forest Green to join American side Kansas City Wizards, writes Peter Orchard.

The 28-year-old was recruited by Dave Hockaday on a non-contract deal in October and made 16 appearances for Rovers, but he has opted to cross the Atlantic to further his nomadic career in Major League Soccer.

Cousin of the late ex-Arsenal and England player David Rocastle, he has been on the books of no fewer than 14 British clubs and had a brief spell at Thrasivoulos Filis in Greece.

Hockaday, whose side grabbed a precious 2-1 league victory over York City on Saturday, said Rocastle had left on good terms.

"This is not a criticism but we haven't got enough money here for Craig to sign a contract, so we wish him well," he said.

"I couldn't stop him so we've shaken hands and I've said thanks very much for what he's done. He has got to look after his family."

The blow of losing Rocastle has been softened by the return of Mike Fowler, a 77th-minute substitute against York after missing the entire campaign with a broken ankle sustained during pre-season.

Man of the match Danny Powell gave Rovers the lead, cancelled out by Levi Mackin to set the stage for Oli Thorne to grab a second-half winner.

The 21-year-old central defender has struggled to win over supporters since arriving in September, but he has the full backing of his manager.

"I don't know what people say about him but Oli is a good defender and the youngest of our young back four," said Hockaday, whose side are two points adrift of safety.

"He needs help at times but if he makes a mistake he holds his hands up. I love him, and I think he'll be a very good defender."

Rovers must now embark on a road trip of four successive away games, starting tomorrow night at Luton Town, and Hockaday has urged his players to replicate Saturday's showing.

He said: "We looked a proper team and there was plenty of passion and energy, so I was delighted with everyone involved."