16/09/08

MOSSLEY are confident of holding on to star striker Michael Fish. The in-form frontman’s goalscoring exploits have suddenly made him one of the hottest properties in non-league football.

UniBond League, premier division side Leigh Genesis have put in seven days’ notice of approach to speak to Fish, who has already scored 12 goals for the Lilywhites. Blue Square North side Southport and UniBond League rivals Curzon Ashton have also made inquiries for the player who is the leading scorer in all three of the UniBond divisions. But Mossley manager Chris Willcock believes Fish should stay.

Willcock said: “I can understand the interest in Michael as all clubs are looking for a striker who can score 20-plus goals a season. “If a fantastic offer was made we would not stand in Michael’s way and we would wish him all the best for the future. But I don’t feel the clubs who have come in for him are any bigger than Mossley and should he join any of them he could end up a squad player. I think he is best staying with us as he has a manager who knows what he is about and who can get the best out of him.”

Fish joined Mossley last season from Stalybridge Celtic, but scored only five goals when he played in a wide position as opposed to his current role as a central striker. Willcock continued: “I was delighted when Michael decided to stay in the summer and knew he is capable of scoring 25 goals a season.

“He has worked tirelessly on his fitness and is the only player not have missed a training session. And now he is enjoying the rewards for his hard work, and is enjoying the interest and limelight.”

Mossley are in action tonight at Salford City in the UniBond League Challenge Cup. Striker Danny Egan and new-signing Paddy Garmory, the nephew of former Mossley player Vinny, are in line to play.

Garmory is a left-sided player who has been signed from Manchester League side Avro having previously been at Abbey Hey and AFC Blackley. Willcock has also captured former Manchester City youth player Michael Connor. The midfielder was released by the Eastlands club last year. But striker Ben Wharton has been freed due to the fierce competition for striking spots.

http://www.oldham-chronicle.co.uk/