Ridout plays down bust-up (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

Ridout plays down bust-up

1:59pm Thursday 9th November 2006 in Football By Nick Mashiter

NICK Ridout has played down rumours of a rift with Melksham Town manager Kelvin Highmore.

Ridout, 18, expects to move to Toolstation Premier rivals Frome Town before the weekend, but says it is not because of a bust up.

He said: "I have no problem with the manger, he is a great bloke and stuck by me, maybe he does feel a little let down but sometimes you have to be selfish and do what you want to do.

"It is disappointing because you want to be able to play for your home town club but I feel I need a new challenge.

"I want to be able to prove to everyone I am good enough to play for Frome."

The defender was substituted just 15 minutes into Melksham's game with Bridgwater last month and hasn't made the squad since.

Highmore said: "I have backed Nick 100 per cent and I feel he has manipulated his move with his attitude.

"It is best he moves on for his sake and everyone else. I will miss him because he is a good player, but I felt he let me down in a big way."

Ridout was involved in a two way battle between Frome and Corsham for his services but says he is going with his instincts in choosing Frome.

He said: "There is a really good set up there, a good pitch and club house. I already know some of the players there who will help me settle in quicker.

"I feel bad for Corsham because they came in for me last year and Colin Bush is a good manager but I think Frome would be better for me."