Tiptree want to keep Underwood (From Maldon and Burnham Standard)

Tiptree want to keep Underwood

12:44pm Thursday 9th July 2009

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TIPTREE United boss Colin Wallington is hopeful of keeping prized asset Lee Underwood – despite interest from Football League sides.

The prolific striker has been approached by ‘a couple’ of professional clubs following his exploits last season, during which he plundered 35 goals and was crowned the Ridgeons League Golden Boot winner.

Several non-league teams are also keen to sign him, including Essex rivals Chelmsford City, who have tabled a bid for the 22-year-old.

Underwood is now weighing up his options, as the Jam-makers prepare for Saturday’s eagerly-anticipated friendly with Colchester United.

But Wallington is hopeful of keeping the former Wivenhoe star at Chapel Road.

“If we had to sell Lee I’d be resigned to losing him,” he said. “But we’re not so quite the opposite applies. I have a very good relationship with him, he loves the club and he knows how much ambition we have. He’s a great asset to our club and we’d love to keep him. Having said that, I wouldn’t ever want to stand in his way. I just want what’s best for Lee and Tiptree United.”

The unnamed Football League club have offered the player seven-day trials.

And Wallington admits it was no surprise to receive so much interest.

“When you score that many goals and finish top scorer in a league, you’re bound to be noticed,” he said. “Aside from that, he’s a very professional man. He’s got great energy and works hard on and off the ball.”

Meanwhile, Wallington is hoping for bumper gate for Saturday’s game against Colchester at Chapel Road (kick-off 3pm).

It will be both sides’ first pre-season friendly and the U’s are bringing a full first-team squad, ahead of their departure for a tour of Germany.

“It’ll be a fantastic test for my players,” said Wallington.

“Hopefully we can put on a good show and a decent exhibition of football.”

Tiptree will hand debuts to new signings Dan Loonan and Paul King and welcome back long-term injury casualties Lee Owen and Jamie Ricks.

Although the match is not all-ticket, spectators are encouraged to arrive in good time so as to avoid disappointment. Entry prices are £10 adults and £5 for seniors and under-16s.

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