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- Richard Whitehead – Burton Mail

4th March 1986
Derby County could be poised for another dramatic transfer raid on Frank Northwood’s talented Gresley Rovers squad.

The man they are after is goalkeeper Carl Austin who has played just four games for the Moatmen since joining them from Staffordshire County League side Milton United in January.

Rams chief scout Ron Jukes – the man who has established a reputation for plucking talent out of the non-league game – will be checking up on Austin’s performances in the next few weeks.

Rovers boss Northwood, who sprung an early season sensation when he discovered Phil Gee and then sold him to Derby, said: “I have spoken to Ron Jukes today and he’s keen to have a look at Carl as soon as possible.”

The Rams will probably take their first chance to assess Austin’s calibre tonight when Rovers travel to Rushall Olympic (7.30 pm).

But they may face opposition from other League clubs.

Hereford United assistant manager Alan Ashman watched Rovers’ 5 – 3 win at Blakenall on Saturday and had a special eye on Austin’s performance.

Austin has had spells with Port Vale and Stafford Rangers before he drifted into comparative obscurity with Milton.

The Gee deal netted Rovers £2,500 – a club record.

Rovers bid to strengthen their claim for the Banks’s West Midlands League Championship tonight against seventh-placed Rushall.

Northwood has secured the loan signing of experienced Hednesford Town striker Johnny Branch and he may come into the team tonight.

Otherwise Northwood keeps the same squad which won unconvincingly at Blakenall.

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