Sidley star approached by St Leonards

Sidley joint manager Peter Heritage said he wasn t surprised at receiving a seven day letter for his player but is confident of keeping him: "They re looking for more local players and we have some of the best from around here.

"I ve had a chat with Brad and he s flattered that a higher level club - not necessarily a better club - is interested in him.

"I can t speak for him but I don t think he ll be going and I would advise against it at this time.

"He s one of the best centre halves in the league and is definitely capable of playing at a higher level, but I m not sure if St Leonards is the right place for him as they are a bit unsettled at the moment.

"We ve got a good set up here and are trying to retain the league and if moves he d be going from a successful club to one that has a good chance of losing every other week."

St Leonards may try to tempt more players away from the County Division One champions - such as their former striker Peter Baker who is known to have an affinty toward The Firs club.

But league rules will prevent Saints making another approach for 28 days.

Sidley take on old rivals Three Bridges in the 4th round of the John O Hara League Cup tomorrow (Saturday).

The Polegrove team have had the better of their recent encounters with Bridges, who could be fielding ex-Saints captain John Crumplin.

Only the injured Wayne Farrier, suspended Dave Carey and possibly Adam Day are expected to be missing from a strong Sidley team.

The home game kicks off at 3pm but fans are advised to phone the club line (01424 221126) to make sure it hasn t been cancelled due to the weather.

Bexhill Town travel to Rye and Iden United reserves in the first round of the Hastings Intermediate Cup at 1.30pm.