KARL Robinson says the overriding emotion over Gavin Whyte's departure from Oxford United is pride.

The winger, who only joined from part-time football in Northern Ireland 12 months ago, has joined Cardiff City.

While the transfer, officially undisclosed but thought to be in the region of £2million plus add-ons, marks a 20-fold increase on United's outlay last year, it is well below Robinson's valuation last month.

But the head coach felt the club could not turn it down. 

He said: "The Gavin situation is paramount to sustainability, to growth, to everything.

"How can you stand in the way of a young man that’s going to get a contract that’s probably six times more than Oxford United pay?

Also read: Oxford United’s squad needs some help in transfer market – Cameron Brannagan

"You can’t do that. He’s got a young child. You have to take into account of the wellbeing of the person.

"I think the world of all our players and it’s quite emotional to see this young man come in fragile and nervous from part-time football and see him walk out with his shoulders back about to become a star in the Championship.

"It’s a tremendously proud moment for us, but from a business point of view it’s very good.

"For winning games on a Saturday it’s horrific, but I have to look at every avenue.

"And the board did, they didn’t want to sell Gavin Whyte, but there’s an understanding that sometimes you have to."

He added: "I’d rather be proud of Gavin’s achievements, than resentful or remorseful that we’re not going to have him on the pitch."