NEILL HARDY could be back at Radcliffe Borough next season, writes STEVE BOTT.

The 28-year-old striker left Stainton Park in a five-figure switch to Natiowide League side Stockport County last summer and forced his way into former manager Andy Kilner's side.

When former Leeds United and Sheffield Wednesday midfielder Carlton Palmer took over following Kilner's departure, it became increasingly obvious that Hardy was not going to figure in the new manager's plans.

Hardy has now left Edgley Park and is looking to stay in the Football League.

"I know that will be difficult, with all that has gone on with TV and everything else and if I do go back to non-league football I would rather go back to Radcliffe than anywhere else," said Hardy.

"I like the club and they are a great set of lads."

Boro boss Kevin Glendon said: "He wants to stay at a higher level and a lot of clubs have got his details.

"He will probably get better offers than we can manage, but if he does have to look at playing non-league football again, hopefully, we'll be in with a chance of bringing him back here."