Andy Sinton backing AFC Telford's Andy Brown

Boss Andy Sinton has thrown a protective arm around AFC Telford United striker Andy Brown.

The teacher-by-trade had an unhappy 25th birthday on Tuesday, missing a glut of chances in the 1-1 draw with Droylsden.

He has scored just seven goals this term, though two of those came immediately prior to the Droylsden game.

"I will back Andy Brown 100 per cent because he will start converting chances into goals," said Sinton.

"He scored two in the last two games against Boston and Alfreton and his chances on Tuesday mostly came in the last 15 minutes when, because of his lack of training, he was maybe getting a bit tired.

"It frustrates me because he hasn't had a serious injury yet we're going into March with our main striker striker still not fully fit.

"But his displays of late have been close to what we know is the real Andy Brown."

Meanwhile, Sinton has been frustrated by inflated wage demands as he continues to try and strengthen his squad.

The Telford chief may cast an eye over two or three trialists in training this evening, but admits he has had to rule out several options due to finances.

"I might be looking to bring one or two in - not to replace anyone but just to bolster the squad," he said.

"But I won't pay over the odds. I've enquired about a couple of people and some of the figures are crazy.

"Well they'll have a shock in the summer when they get released and they're scratching around. They'll see the reality of the economic climate and how it affects football."

• Tickets are still available for tomorrow's schools international between England and Northern Ireland at the New Bucks Head (7pm).

By CHRIS HUDSON