Bristol Rovers almost certainly didn't expect Luke Leahy to finish as their top scorer for 2020/21, but the fact the left-back finished as their leading marksmen is probably an indictment upon the Gas' season.
Leahy has been one of the few bright spots in a truly miserable campaign for Rovers, albeit with reservations over his defending, but on Thursday it was confirmed he will be leaving the club after rejecting the offer of a new contract.
Leahy will be among 10 first-teamer to depart next month, plus three Development Squad player, as his present deal expires with the 28-year-old bound for the Midlands, as League One Shrewsbury lead the race for his signature.
The 28-year-old is originally from Coventry, has a young family, and can remain in League One, a decision he's been mulling over for at least 10 weeks as Rovers have wanted to keep him for next season.
But with filling the goalscoring void one of Barton's primary concerns as he enters the summer transfer window, Leahy's canny knack of making a contribution in the final third will be sorely missed.
Leahy, who joined the Gas from Walsall in 2019, was ultimately the standout name on Rovers' retained list with Ed Upson, Josh Hare, Mark Little and Jordi van Stappershoef among those leaving the club.
The response from Gasheads on social media has been mixed, with some disappointed, others understanding the decision and a number pleased to see the full-back, and others, move on ahead of what's likely to be a major summer rebuild.
Thoughts will now turn to the summer transfer window with Barton insisting last week he's close to securing a number of permanent deals.
There's also the matter of those still at Rovers under contract as some will likely be moved on to help free up wages and freshen the squad.
