AFC Telford United have fought off competition from two Blue Square Premier clubs to sign goalscoring midfielder Phil Trainer on a one-year contract.

The Wolverhampton-based ace has turned down approaches from Stevenage Borough and Crawley to sign for the Bucks.

He scored six goals while on loan from Oxford at the end of last season, and has opted to make the move permanent following his release from the Kassam Stadium.

In a further boost, Telford assistant manager Larry Chambers also revealed that left-sided midfielder Danny Edwards had also signed up for another season.

On Trainer, Chambers said: “He spoke at length to Stevenage and Crawley and also had an offer from Solihull Moors. But he enjoyed his time here towards the end of last season and I don’t think he was keen on travelling too far, even though he wants to play at the highest level he can and get back in the Conference.

“For me, it’s a massive signing – with a good pre-season behind him I’m expecting big things.

“He’s an ambitious player, and I’d imagine he’s turned down some bigger financial offers to come here.”

Newport-based Edwards has also agreed terms to remain at the New Bucks Head, and has now been challenged to find a higher level of consistency.

“His performances last year weren’t consistent but, with a good pre-season behind him, I’m expecting him to improve.

“He’s a good age, he’s got a great left foot and he’s fairly versatile.”

Chambers also remains optimistic that he can persuade top scorer Danny Carey-Bertram to commit his future to Telford.

The former Hereford hitman bagged 21 goals as Telford went all the way to the Blue Square North final.

“I’m hoping something can be resolved in the next 48-to-72 hours,” added Chambers.

“We know he’s got other offers to consider, but he’s intimated that he wants to stay.”

By CHRIS HUDSON