FORMER Redditch United striker John Williams has turned to the Professional Footballers' Association in his contract dispute with the club.

The former Premiership ace was released by Reds boss Rod Brown four weeks ago and claims he had signed a one-season deal at the Valley Stadium which had started just six weeks earlier.

The 37-year-old forward was unveiled by the club at a press conference at the Abbey Hotel on 19 May - the day he claims he signed a deal running from August until the end of April 2006.

"I was led to believe I signed a 12 month contract," said the well-travelled striker.

"Six weeks into the contract I was told I was being released. It was a knee-jerk reaction because the team was bottom of the league and not doing too well.

"I was told I was being released to bring in new players. I have signed a lot of contracts in my career and this has never happened to me before. It has left a bitter taste in my mouth."

Williams started out at Cradley Town in 1988 and also played for Swansea City, Coventry City, Wycombe Wanderers, Hereford United, Walsall, Exeter City, Cardiff City, York City, Darlington, Kidderminster Harriers, Stoke City and Notts County.

The PFA have contacted the FA on Williams' behalf and the governing body have written to United who have 14 days to respond.

No-one from Redditch United was available for comment.

The Reds' disappointing season continued with a 3-0 defeat to Stafford Rangers on Saturday. Manager Brown was hoping for a turnaround in fortunes for last night's planned trip to Hinckley United. Redditch host Workington on Saturday (ko 3pm) and visit neighbours Moor Green in Round One of the Worcestershire Senior Cup on Tuesday (ko 7.45pm).