FURIOUS Redditch United manager Liam McDonald has accused Evesham United of trying to tap up star attacker Ashley Sammons.

McDonald believes the Robins contacted the flying forward, who has scored nine goals in the Southern League Premier Division this season, before officially submitting the seven-day request to speak with him.

It is a move that has enraged the normally easy going Reds manager. Sammons is among United’s top earners but Evesham, who are 14th in the Division One South & West, offered to double his money if he moved to the Jubilee Stadium.

“I am disappointed in Evesham, to be honest,” said McDonald. “They have spoken to Ashley before putting in the seven days for him.

“They have offered two or three times what we’re paying him, but I feel Ashley is on the verge of doing great things and shouldn’t be looking down a level.

“He’s a gifted young man and he knows we’re trying to build something here and he’s said he’s not interested in going to Evesham. What they have done is disrespectful to me and the club.”

Meanwhile, a host of scouts from Championship and Scottish Premier League clubs came to watch top-scorer Jermaine Hylton during Saturday’s 5-2 win over Trafford in the FA Trophy.

Hylton hit the target as United battled back from an early goal and will now face Solihull Moors away in the third qualifying round on Saturday, November 29. Jamie Spencer, Jim Mutton and Simeon Maye also scored in the victory, which saw United pocket £3,250 in prize money.

“I said to the players that we should be good enough to get through the first two rounds and that the real challenge would start at this stage,” said the Reds’ boss.

“It’s a tough draw, but I am also sure that (Solihull manager) Marcus Bignot would have preferred someone else as well.

“We’ve nothing to lose and we’re on a good run, so we’re all looking forward to an exciting game.

“Marcus is someone I look up to and am in contact with, so that gives the game something extra.”

United will be aiming to stretch their ten-game unbeaten run in all competitions when they entertain Histon on Saturday (3pm ko).