EX-CLARET Mike Conroy is hitting the net Down Under - using cyberspace to keep in touch with fans from his former clubs.

Conroy, now playing in Australia for Melbourne-based club Carlton, has been receiving messages of support via the club's web site.

Chris Beattie, who runs the site, dreamed up the idea of inviting well-wishers to get in touch with the former Turf Moor top scorer via the Internet.

And the response has been huge with several supporters from his native Scotland and his former clubs in England, which include Burnley, Preston, Blackpool and Fulham sending messages of support.

One of the messages was from Burnley supporter Dave Wynne who said: "Mike Conroy is fondly remembered by a lot of of Clarets fans.

"He was our leading scorer when we won promotion from the old Fourth Division a few years ago and formed a great partnership with Roger Eli.

"Unfortunately after the promotion season he was injured and missed part of the next season, but when he did return he linked up with Adrian Heath and helped Adrian have his best ever season goals wise. I for one will always fondly remember his short stay at Burnley and I think if it had not been for Jimmy Mullen, Mike would have stayed at Burnley for a few more seasons."

Conroy has still to score for Carlton in seven appearances. He is also helping coach one of Carlton's junior teams along with two other Brits, Dave McPherson, formerly of Hearts and Rangers, and Stuart Slater, an ex-Celtic, Ipswich and West Ham winger.

Chris Beattie said Mike Conroy would be replying to the messages sent to him on the internet.

Carlton's website is at http://www.carltonsoccer.com.au

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