Smart move by Paulton (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

Smart move by Paulton

DARREN Smart is rapidly becoming a wanted man after Paulton Rovers have become the second club in the last three weeks to make an approach for the Calne Town defender.

Smart, 19, has been at Bremhill View for nearly three seasons but his assured performances at the heart of the Lillywhites' defence this campaign have attracted a lot of attention from rival clubs.

He turned down the chance to move up a division by joining Melksham Town at the beginning of the month, saying at the time it was not right to move. But with Paulton currently topping the Premier Division and challenging for a place in the Dr Martens League next season a move there could prove more attractive.

Smart has yet to discuss the move with Perrin but said he has a lot to think about.

He said: "I don't know what I am going to do yet. I will need to talk to Paulton and then make my decision from there.

"I am considering it more than I was about moving to Melksham because it is definitely a better move.

"But maybe it would be better for me to stay at Calne until the end of the season and then decide on my future from there."

Calne Town manager Kelvin Highmore is resigned to losing his defender sooner rather than later.

He said: "I know we will lose him at some point. He is probably the best player I have ever managed. I just have to let it take its course and let Darren make his own mind up about it.

"I personally think he would better off waiting until the end of the season and seeing what happens then. Because logistically it would be a nightmare for him as he lives in Swindon.

"I don't want him to leave us but I am not going to stand in any players way as long as they are making a move upwards."