It's certainly a peculiar one. Not signing a new deal pre-dates Warnock, and I remember Woodgate being cagey about it at the time when no deal had been signed yet others such as Coulson, Spence and Walker were signing new contracts.
However, it was pretty clear from when Warnock became manager that he didn't rate Pears or Stojanovic as number 1. Both got games in the run in but neither were convincing. There was time on his side for Pears to sit it out as number 2 and maybe get a chance if Bettinelli got injured/suspended, or when/if Bettinelli or Warnock leave next summer.
As a young lad, and a boro supporter you would have thought he would have stuck it out a bit longer. Although, if it appears your manager doesn't rate you and a new number one comes in why hang about.
Warnock comes across as all nicey nicey in front of the microphone but I am sure he is quite ruthless and knows what he wants behind the scenes. Just look at Walker.....threadbare up front yet sends him out on loan. Says it all.