WORCESTER City's hopes of signing Ryan Clarke appear to be over after the defender performed a dramatic U-turn and opted to stay at Alfreton Town.

Clarke looked to be on his way to Worcester if a compensation fee could be agreed.

City manager Andy Preece had hoped to make him his second summer signing following the acquisition of Clarke's former team-mate Emeka Nwadike.

But 23-year-old Clarke informed Alfreton boss Nicky Law by phone that he now intends to remain at the Derbyshire club for the 2007/08 campaign.

Reports suggest an agreement over compensation, required because the full-back is under 24, was not reached.

Law said: "Alfreton had no intention of wanting to see Ryan depart.

"He has been a silly lad who has had his head turned by outsiders. He has told me he wants to be a part of the squad and wants to work hard and force his way into the team.

"I am delighted to keep him, there are no hard feelings."