John Reed, manager of UniBond League Premier Division club Buxton, has expressed his delight at the signing of striker Neil Ross from Ilkeston Town for a fee of around £15,000.
Ross, 25 was Ilkeston’s top scorer with ten goals and started his career with Leeds United before enjoying spells with Stockport County, Macclesfield Town and non-League clubs Halifax Town, Alfreton Town, Bradford Park Avenue and Ossett Town.
"He is a big lad, at six foot three and is a massive signing for us," said Reed. "We’ve been chasing him for quite a few weeks and I’ve got to thank Chris Brindley because it wouldn’t have happened if it wasn’t for him.
"We beat several clubs to this lad and he has signed a two and half year contract with us.
"He can score goals at this level and can command the front line, which is what you need in the UniBond Premier."
Ilkeston`s assistant-manager Martin Carruthers claims the club will not make any knee-jerk signings to replace their top-scorer.
Carruthers, who also plays as a striker, believes the team have enough firepower already to cope with Ross’ departure.
They won their first game without the twelve-goal hitman on Wednesday night and take on high-flying Gateshead on Saturday.
"It’s a massive loss to us but when a club can offer a two-and-a-half year contract on more money, you have to accept the player’s decision," said Carruthers.
"I’ve been in the situation myself as a player. People talk about loyalty but as soon as a team don’t want a player any more they get rid of him. It’s a short career and you have to make the most of it.
"It’s a disappointment but we believe we have the players to do the job. There’s myself, Adam Muller, Adam Lee and young Shane Newton - we’ve got enough options to see us through.
"In time, if it turns out that we do need another option, then we will look into strengthening
From the non league daily[br][size=1]Posted on: November 18, 2007, 06:34:07 PM[/size][hr]I think Buxton are going to have a big say in the title this year, they are putting players on big and long term contracts the manager has just signed for two more years. They have just beaten Guiseley, and have to play us once, Fleetwood twice, Gateshead twice, Marine twice so they could end up doing us a few favours along the way