ANDY FORBES is likely to remain a Winchester City player now that his proposed move to AFC Bournemouth has collapsed.

Cherries boss Sean O'Driscoll confirmed yesterday that he had been in negotiations to take City's 76-goal marksman to Dean Court for pre-season training.

But, although O'Driscoll has not ruled out a future move for the £30,000-rated striker, he confirmed Forbes would not be joining the Bournemouth ranks for the time being.

He explained: "Unfortunately the move has fallen through due to a number of factors - in particular Andy's work commitments and the fact we were unable to secure a satisfactory agreement with Winchester.

"Andy had been due to join us for pre-season training but, although Andy and Winchester have been extremely helpful and the situation could be resurrected in the future, it will not happen at the moment.

" Conference outfit Farnborough Town and Isthmian Premier new boys Eastleigh have both made what City's director of football David Malone describes as "decent offers" for Forbes.

But, at 25, the ex-Reading trainee is only interested in furthering his career at a professional club.

Malone confirmed: "Forbesy's decided that, if he can't go to a Football League club, then he will stay with us.

"We had very amicable discussions with Bournemouth and we're still hopeful that, some time in the future, an acceptable agreement can be made, but now's not the right time.

"Bournemouth wanted to take him on an extended trial and Andy (an electrical appliance salesman) couldn't keep his job open if things didn't work out.

"He'll wait until he's able to devote himself to football full-time and hope Bournemouth still want him.

"I'm pleased that he's decided to stay with Winchester because I desperately didn't want him to go to another non-League club.

He's made the right decision.

" FA Vase winners Winchester have already signed Jamie Musselwhite from Fareham and Stuart Cannie from Bashley in preparation for Forbes' likely departure, but Malone reckons there's room for everyone.

He said: "It still only gives us four strikers and we've got a big squad in all areas.

" Winchester's next recruit will be Wimborne Town's experienced former Bashley defender Darren Powell who has agreed terms with the Wessex League/Cup champions.

Malone said: "Darren's an excellent player who I've been trying to get here for a long time."

● Andy Mason has been confirmed as player-boss of SWL outfit Portland United.

The popular ex-Weymouth midfielder took over in a caretaker capacity when Peter Conning quit Grove Corner in January.

He will be assisted by ex-Fareham man Micky Greeno.