MIXED messages were coming out of St George's Lane last night as skipper Chris Smith's future at Worcester City remained in doubt.

With AFC Telford United's offer to make the 26-year-old central defender their club record signing fast approaching today's 3pm deadline, City boss Richard Dryden was under the impression that chairman Dave Boddy had rejected the Bucks' second offer.

However, Boddy insists no decision has been taken.

"We will let Telford and everyone else know when we have made our decision," said the City chairman.

Dryden, however, said: "I had a good chat with Dave Boddy on Tuesday night and I believe that the offer is going to be rejected.

"The add-ons that have come with the bid don't always materialise. Sometimes the player moves on, gets injured or they just don't play the number of games needed for the extra money."

Telford originally offered £1,500 for the former Leeds United trainee which was quickly rebuffed. However, the second bid is being seriously considered by the St George's Lane outfit.

Telford chairman Lee Carter said that this bid would eventually break the club transfer record - the £5,000 which they paid out for former Tamworth striker Lee Moore two years ago.

The offer from the Shropshire club has come with a series of add-ons depending on the number of appearances Smith would make for Telford.

However, it is thought that if they get no response from City today, their offer for the Worcester skipper is likely to decrease or withdrawn.

Dryden is hopeful that Smith (ankle) will play some part in tomorrow's clash at Southport.