Dickinson U-turn angers Parsley (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Dickinson U-turn angers Parsley

12:30pm Thursday 18th June 2009 in

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Neil Parsley has blasted his former team-mate and long-term friend Steve Dickinson after the goalkeeper signed for Bradford Park Avenue despite verbally agreeing a move to Throstle Nest.

“I am livid with his actions and very disappointed in him because he has acted out of character,” said Parsley.

When Parsley dropped out of the pro ranks he was in the same team as a young Dickinson at Guiseley.

Parsley was manager at Nethermoor by the time Dickinson returned for a second spell after a successful period in the Conference Premier with Southport.

“I spoke to him just two weeks ago and we agreed a deal.

“I got wind of another club coming in for him so I rang Steve straight away. I couldn’t get through to him and he didn’t get back to me.

“That was a week last Friday and soon after it was on Avenue’s forum, not their official website but their chit-chat with their fans, that he had signed for them. That left me annoyed and without a keeper who I feel is one of the best in non-league football.

“I have no problems with Bradford Park Avenue over this issue. If – which I have reason to believe – he has signed for them because they have offered him a better financial package, they are within their rights because he hadn’t signed for us. All we had was a gentleman’s agreement and a handshake between two friends.

“If he has signed for someone else then why couldn’t Steve ring me or answer one of my calls to tell me that? I feel totally let down.

“He has severed a long friendship with his actions. It’s over for me.”