AFC Telford strike a blank in move for Connor McCarthy
Boss Rob Smith has failed in a bid to bring striker Connor McCarthy back to AFC Telford.
The Bucks had been hopeful of striking a deal to bring the 20-year-old Southport hitman back after he impressed during a three-month loan stay earlier this term, scoring four goals.
But McCarthy, who was described by Smith as a "Wayne Rooney-type player" when he first arrived at the New Bucks Head, is set to stay with his parent club.
The deal was one of around a dozen presently being worked on by Smith and assistant Larry Chambers, as they look to add much-needed quality to the ranks for the club's ongoing battle against the drop from National League North.
Yesterday saw the exit of two players, as both Niall Flint and Jack Roberts departed to free up space in the squad and playing budget. Both players were signed on the same day last summer by former boss Steve Kittrick but featured only fleetingly after he was sacked just five games into the season.
Midfielder Flint, a former Shrewsbury youth team player, has had his contract cancelled while Roberts – who impressed Kittrick during a pre-season trial – has agreed to join Southern League outfit Stratford Town.
The Bucks went into today's game at Stockport County bottom of the table and seven points adrift of safety.
