AFC Telford United today declared their desire to hold on to striker Matt Nolan – after receiving an approach from Lowestoft Town.

The Suffolk-based Ryman League division one north club have served seven days’ notice to speak to the 27-year-old hitman.

And, despite the fact that they play two levels lower than the Bucks, boss Rob Smith is refusing to dismiss their interest lightly.

Nolan, who lives in Luton, only joined Telford in the summer, making the move from Corby Town.

He has largely been used as a substitute so far, but has two goals to his name – including a fabulous winner away to Gloucester City on Saturday.

That has alerted Lowestoft, who are a club on the rise after winning the Ridgeon’s League title last season. They currently lie second in the table in their first year at Ryman League level.

Smith said: “Lowestoft asked us to waive the seven days’ notice and we refused, so they can’t actually speak to him until early next week.

“I don’t really know what’s going on and I’ll have a chat with Matty tonight to see where he stands.

“His home in Luton is actually nearer to Telford than it is to Lowestoft so that shouldn’t be a factor.

“I’d be extremely disappointed if he wanted to leave and drop to that standard.”

Meanwhile, chairman Lee Carter has called for everyone connected to the club to show more positivity after being stung by criticism over their start to the season.

“Performances haven’t been great and the team would be the first to admit that, but we have 12 points now compared to 11 after seven games last season,” he said.

“If you put that into perspective then we have had a reasonable start to the season – we had 13 points at this stage in 2007 and went on to finish second.”

• The New Bucks Head will host a charity match on Sunday, September 20 (1pm) in aid of Help for Heroes. One team managed by Telford keeper Ryan Young and coach Dean Williams will face another managed by players Gavin Cowan and Danny Edwards. Entry will be free, with donations taken on the gate.

By CHRIS HUDSON