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."
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