WISBECH Town boss Steve Appleby has declared himself delighted that two key players have chosen to stay with the ambitious Fenmen despite interest from rival clubs.

United Counties League side Deeping Rangers made a seven-day approach for veteran striker Andy Furnell last week and there was also thought to be interest in newly-signed midfield ace Callum Reed.

But Furnell, who has scored more than 100 goals for Wisbech, turned down the offer and Appleby said Reed had also reaffirmed his desire to help the Fenmen charge up the league.

Appleby said: “I’m delighted that they have chosen to stay. It’s good news and an indication of our team spirit.

“Keeping the same squad is the key to success in this league. It’s about getting good players and keeping them playing together week in week out.

“What Furnell does on the pitch is lead by example. Sometimes it’s not about someone running 40 yards, it’s about that first touch and being able to lay the ball off. He is an intelligent footballer that knows the game inside out.”

Reed is thought to have alerted the attention of several clubs after an impressive start at the Tom Wood’s Beer Fenland Stadium.

“We are always going to have interest with Callum,” said Appleby. “He’s a young lad who is very ambitious and he sees us as having ambition. He’s playing well and he’s enjoying his football when he wasn’t before.

“He’s reiterated that he’s not going anywhere. We are lucky to have him and maybe next year we can chase the league and he can fulfil his ambitions with us.”

Wisbech’s clash with Histon Reserves was postponed on Saturday due to a waterlogged pitch. The Fenmen have only played twice in the last eight weeks.

“It has been so stop-start that in fact it’s been stop-stop,” said Appleby. “It’s frustrating but there’s plenty of games to go.”

The Fenmen travel to Essex on Saturday to take on Stanway Rovers, who sacked their manager last week and will host Kirkley & Pakefield in the quarter final of the Ridgeons League Cup after they beat Great Yarmouth 2-1 on Tuesday.

Appleby said: “At this stage we were always going to play a good side so I’m more concerned about us. Bring it on.”

• Jonathan Pearce was elected as chairman when Wisbech Supporters Club held their annual meeting on Saturday. Richard Meek was elected as treasurer, John Keith as secretary and Spencer Larham as assistant secretary.