IT looks as if Bashley will have to go back with an improved bid if they want to prise classy defender Matt Parnell away from AFC Totton.

The Foresters made their move for the former Gloucester City centre-back late last week, but Totton chairman John Dawson confirmed yesterday: "Their offer is not acceptable."

Totton, who face an FA Vase replay at Bedfont tonight (7.45), are not even convinced that Parnell wants to leave Testwood Park after signing a two-year contract during the summer.

Dawson said: "Matt's just got a job as a PE master at the Henry Beaufort School in Winchester and I don't even know if he's attracted to going to a Southern League club at this particular time. The travelling commitments at Bashley's level are substantial."

Midfielder Mark Clothier, meanwhile, has returned to the Testwood Park fold after two appearances as a substitute for Bashley. He came off the bench again to play for Totton in Saturday's 2-2 draw against Bedfont and is expected to be in the squad for tonight's trip to Middlesex.

Dawson clarified: "We helped Bashley out by waiving the seven days' notice of approach for Mark because they had an injury crisis, but it was on the condition that it didn't compromise his Wessex registration with us.

"Ultimately it's up to Mark to decide what level he wants to play at, but, like Matt, he has work commitments which can't be jeopardised."

FA Vase second round proper (local draw): BAT Sports v Frome Town, Christchurch v Andover, Gosport Borough v Highworth Town, Lymington & New Milton v Backwell Utd, Thatcham Town v Fareham Town, Torrington v Moneyfields, Winchester City v Hamworthy Utd, Withdean 2000 v AFC Totton or Bedfont, Whitchurch Utd or Three Bridges v Diss Town.