Rangers boss makes calls on pair

Striker Neville Thompson was today set a deadline to make a decision on a move to Stafford Rangers - as midfielder Mick Morton did a U-turn and left the club.

New manager Greg Clowes wants an answer from Thompson, who played under him at Newcastle Town last season, but Leek and Town themselves are also keen on the forward.

And Morton has already decided to leave Rangers - less than two weeks after signing non-contract forms - having also lined up a move to Leek.

Clowes, who spent last night scouting AFC Telford's pre-season friendly at Rocester, is already planning for life without the midfielder and has established contact with Alex Forde.

Forde, who played for Rangers last season, is on trial with full-time club Luton but the Rangers boss has left the door open for him and Sean Kinsella, who is trying to catch the eye at Stockport.

However, Clowes will move on to other targets in attack after Saturday's first friendly at home to Port Vale if there is no call from Thompson.

The manager said: "I have told Neville I want a decision by the end of the week, because I feel it has gone on for far too long.

"I have put a deal to him, if someone comes in and betters that offer then, potentially, we have a problem.

"But, if he wants to play at a higher level, then it's a no-brainer."

Leek and Town both play in the Evo-Stik Division One South, while Rangers have just come down from the Blue Square North to the Evo-Stik Premier League.

Clowes also admitted he was surprised by Morton's decision to leave, having given him the opportunity to step up a level.

However, the Rangers boss respects his decision and even hinted they may be reunited in the future.

He said: "We offered Mick a better standard of football but he has chosen to stay at the same level, it's up to him and I will honour his decision, but it's a decision I didn't think he would make.

"The door has been left open for him at Stafford Rangers, he's got his reasons but I don't know what they are."