GILLINGHAM'S hopes of luring Blue Square Premier Division hot-shot Stuart Fleetwood to the club have failed.

The 21-year-old striker was a transfer target for Gillingham manager Mark Stimson but League 1 rivals Crewe looked all set to bag the player after winning the bidding war.

But Fleetwood turned down the move to Gresty Road last night and insisted he now wants to stay put in a bid to help his current club Forest Green Rovers gain promotion.

"I am committed with my team-mates to making this the best ever season that the club have experienced," he said.

"I can honestly state that even if any other clubs come in with a late bid before the transfer window closes, I am not interested."

Fleetwood is out of contract in the summer and the Welshman admits he may then consider his options.

"The summer may be a different matter," he said. "But I owe a debt of gratitude to the gaffer (Jim Harvey).

"At a time when many thought my career had ended, he had faith in me, and I love the way he has the lads playing and that has helped me tremendously."