WINGER Graham Branch's days at Prenton Park look numbered. Player-boss John Aldridge has declared that Branch - he was transfer listed at the start of the season after turning down the offer of a new contract - will not play in the first team again.

Second Division Wigan Athletic look set to make a renewed offer for the player's services, after an initial approach broke down. Branch's contract expires at the end of the present season and, under the Bosman ruling, can leave on a free transfer.

Said Mr Aldridge: "Graham's a nice enough lad and it's frustrating for both of us. I can understand Graham's view point and he can understand mine. It's a stalemate, but I only want players who want to play for Tranmere Rovers."

Converted for the new archive on 13 March 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.