Bully warning for missing striker

Stafford Rangers manager Steve Bull admits he has no idea where striker David McNiven is - or whether he has a future at Marston Road.

The 30-year-old was conspicuous by his absence when the players returned to pre-season training nearly two weeks ago and he has not been seen since.

One of the highest earners at the club, he is practically on a full-time wage at a part-time club. His contract with Rangers is thought to be his only source of income.

Board members of the club stated at a recent question and answer session that McNiven would be fined if he did not report back for pre-season.

Two weeks later there is still no sign, so it appears the club have little option but to carry out that threat.

The much-travelled hitman still has a year left on his deal and Bull declared that if he does not want to play for the club, he will be happy to show him the exit at Marston Road.

He said: "I really don't know what the situation is with David. I haven't seen or spoke to him. He hasn't started pre-season training with us and we came back nearly two weeks ago.

"At the end of the day, I only want players who want to play for Stafford Rangers. If David does not want that, he can leave.

"He is on good money here and if he is not going to make the effort I want him gone. I could use what we pay him to attract another player.

"As far as David's thoughts go, I don't know because I have not heard anything from him."