Ayr United and Girvan in tug of war for striker Michael Moffat

Jul 16 2010 by Mike WIlson, Ayrshire Post (main ed)

AYR UNITED are locked in a tug of war for Girvan FC striker Michael Moffat.

The First Division juniors want £5,000 for their star hit man who has played two trial games for the Somerset Parkers.

But Ayr are baulking at the transfer fee while two top flight junior clubs have slapped in bids for Moffat’s services.

Boss Brian Reid admitted it is stalemate in his bid to land the 25-year-old. He has offered players on loan and a benefit game but Girvan are holding out for cash.

Moffat is now back training with Girvan who have refused permission for him to play any more games for Ayr until a deal is struck.

Reid said: “It is a shame for the lad who is desperate to come here. But the days of senior clubs at our level playing transfer fees for players are all but over. We would like to do something with Michael but not at the figures which Girvan are looking for.”

Girvan are refusing to budge and boss Brian McLuckie won’t accept that Ayr don’t have the money to make them an offer.

He said: “Ayr have a playing budget for the season like every other club and it’s up to them how they divide the cash.

“It’s not about money for Michael - he just wants to go senior. I would like him to get the chance but Ayr have to assist us.

“He is not going for nothing. We don’t have to sell him and we would prefer to keep him but the ball is in Ayr’s court.

“They should come to the table or walk away. If I have to replace Michael it will cost me money.

“We don’t make the rules, we only work to them and Ayr have to realise that.”

Meanwhile, Reid is delighted to have landed Andy Rodgers who made a scoring debut in the 2-1 defeat by Motherwell.

He said: “Andy had interest from a couple of other teams but chose us. He will be a good player for us and can play at a higher level.”