TONY James admits to a touch of jealousy following Mark Robinson's move to Coca-Cola League Two side Stockport County.

The long-serving Hereford United captain, who signed a fresh 12-month deal at Edgar Street, has made no secret of his desire to feature in the Football League.

But defender James, 26, wants to fulfil those dreams in a Bulls shirt, a key reason behind his decision to pledge another year to the club he joined from West Brom in 1997.

"As long as I'm here (at Hereford)," said James. "I'm sure one day I will be playing in the Football League.

"Of course, I'm envious of Mark and other players like him. Whenever I pick up the papers, I read about players moving to the Football League, players that I believe I'm better than at times.

"Sometimes I sit there and think what have I got to do. It does get a little bit frustrating, but I don't let it get me down."

Robinson spent one season with Hereford following his move from Hartlepool and Welshman James has backed the left-back to prove a success at Edgeley Park.

He said: "Mark's not the most exciting left back, but he does a job and does that to the best of his ability. The manager likes that and he knew what he was about. Mark did his job very well."

James admits he was not at his best last season. He struggled to maintain his previous good form and had to battle hard for his place when director of football Graham Turner reverted from his usual five to four-man defence.

He added: "I struggled a little bit with injuries last season. I did not have the best pre-season and any footballer will tell you that you need a good pre-season.

"My form got a bit patchy and there was a bit of speculation that I was leaving. I do think next season the gaffer will start off with three at the back again. It's his preferred formation."