The 26-year-old Brit said on Tuesday evening that he was 'gutted and shocked' at the decision to axe him from the roster for next year.

The news was also met with surprise by supporters as Thompson, who had scored 125 goals in 250 games for Bees, was viewed as a key player.

However, Bees have released a statement explaining the reasons for the decision, saying: "Having spent the past three seasons with the Bees as well as previous spells with the team, Shaun has been a valued part of the club for a long time and for that we appreciate his efforts and everything he has brought to the team.

"While a contract was offered for the coming season the two parties could not reach agreement on terms, and given this situation the club will not stand in the way of Shaun and his aspirations for the future." Bees general manager Ben Beeching added: “Tough decisions have to be made, and not to make them is shirking responsibility.

"This summer is about putting together a squad of players capable of building on last season’s progress and having the right chemistry and mix of skills is crucial to that." “Lukas [Smital, head coach] and I wanted to build the squad in a proper manner this summer with the right types of players on the ice and in the room.

“Lukas’s approach is a very specific one for how the team is setup, and that system with the right players playing it will give the club the very best opportunity to achieve its goals for a season that we are very excited about." * PICK UP A COPY OF THE NEWS NEXT WEEK FOR AN EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH SHAUN THOMPSON.