"Obviously I am disappointed to be losing Paul because he has developed over the season," Rovers No 2 Richard O'Kelly told The Star.
"He is a box-to-box player and has tremendous energy and can also put his foot in.
"It doesn't surprise me that other clubs were interested in him because he certainly showed his worth in the second half of the season.
"The fact that the likes of Derby County have been watching Paul shows how well the boy has done.
"From a personal point of view, I am sorry to see him go because he was an integral part of the team. He had good character and showed a fantastic attitude when he wasn't in the side and was an example to everybody.
"It just shows that if you work hard in this game you will get your just rewards and that is particularly so in Paul's case.
"I am sorry to see him go but it is a big opportunity for him to further his career at a club who will be hoping to be back playing in the Premiership the season after next.
"You can't blame a player for wanting to improve himself - that's part and parcel of football. He will go with the best wishes of everyone at the club."