BLUES striker Chris Holroyd has rejected the chance to go on trial with League Two rivals Bournemouth.
Chester boss Simon Davies had given Holroyd, 21, permission to begin a week-long trial with the Cherries, who were taken over by former City director Paul Baker and Liverpool-based sports marketing group Sports-6 last week.
But Nantwich-based Holroyd, who turned down a move to Cambridge United last week, is thought to be keen to stay close to his north-west roots and was unwilling to travel to the south coast.
City managing director Bob Gray said: “I understand that the player’s agent is trying to get him fixed up with a club nearer to home, so possibly there may be developments later in the week.”
Unlike Holroyd, Chester youngster Paul Rutherford has taken up the opportunity to go on trial with Bournemouth. The 21-year-old midfielder made the long journey to Dorset yesterday.
Midfielder Mark Hughes has failed to agree personal terms with Barnet so he will remain at Chester for the time being at least. Hughes had been given permission to speak to the Bees as he has fallen down the midfield pecking order following the arrival of Jay Harris, Anthony Barry and David Mannix.
French trialist Damien Mozika, another midfielder, is expected to play from the start in tonight’s Deva Stadium friendly against Carlisle (7.45pm).
