SOUTHPORT boss Paul Carden has revealed that Accrington Stanley striker James Gray backed out of a loan move to the club after only one training session.

The former Stanley player had agreed a deal to take Gray to the Conference club, but the 22-year-old - out of favour at Accrington - had second thoughts.

Carden said “James attended training on Thursday with us. But after agreeing on the loan and shaking hands on it, James contacted me raising doubts about the move.

"Therefore it is best James stays at Accrington where he currently isn't featuring.

"I would like to thank John Coleman for his support in this matter but I can't take a player who has doubts about playing in the Vanarama Conference."

Gray tweeted: "I want to stay and fight for my place at Stanley! Wish Southport all the best!"