Rovers dismiss third Leeds bid for Davies

Aug 30 2007 by Nick Hilton, Liverpool Daily Post

Steve Davies shows his delight after scoring Tranmere's 2nd goal against Cammell Laird - Picture: Martin Birchall _158

TRANMERE ROVERS say they have turned down a third offer from Leeds United for winger Steve Davies.

The Yorkshire giants have had the 19-year-old in their sights since the teams met on the opening day of the League One season.

Davies’ current contract at Prenton Park runs out next summer and Tranmere say negotiations with the player and his advisers over a new extended deal began several months ago.

Manager Ronnie Moore says he hopes an agreement can be reached although tomorrow’s transfer deadline – the last day of the August transfer window – will be an important barrier.

Moore said last night: “Clubs have much less power than they used to, even with young players and there is only so much we can do.

“Is not a matter of the club needing or wanting to sell. Quite often the decision is based on what the player wants to do.”

Davies, a product of Tranmere’s youth development system, has been in compelling form since the start of the season and has more than 50 first team appearances under his belt.

Meanwhile, Rovers hope an early kick-off time and a sharp reduction in admission charges will encourage a good turnout for their Johnstones Paints Trophy game against Morecambe at Prenton Park next week.

The first-round tie on Tuesday, September 4 kicks off at 7pm with adults paying £7 for admission and seniors, young persons and juniors £3.

Chief executive Mick Horton said: “We hope the early kick-off will allow more children and families to come to the game, particularly in view of the fact that a penalty shoot-out may be needed to settle the tie.”

Full paying adults purchasing match tickets in advance will be entitled to one free junior ticket. This offer applies to all areas of the ground, including the Tranmere Suite, Vice Presidents’ Suite and Dixie Dean Suite.

Tranmere Suite, Vice Presidents’ Suite and Dixie Dean Suite season ticket holders are admitted free of charge.

Due to the expected attendance for this fixture, only the following stands will be open: Main Stand, Paddocks and the first ten rows of the Lower Kop. Visiting supporters will be situated in the Johnny King Stand.

Manager Ronnie Moore added: “The Johnstone’s Paint Trophy gives clubs in League One and League Two the opportunity of competing at Wembley Stadium.

“That is a unique experience for a player and one I’d be delighted to achieve as a manager with Tranmere.”