A ROW has broken out between National League North rivals Chester FC and AFC Telford United after the Shropshire outfit accused their Cheshire neighbours of making an illegal approach for one of their players.

According to a statement on Telford's website, winger Adam Dawson had quit the Bucks after informing manager Gavin Cowan over the weekend of his desire to find a club closer to his Manchester home.

However, the Bucks claim they then received information to suggest Chester had already made contact with the player regarding a move and that Dawson had met them to agree terms without the football club receiving an official seven day approach to allow permission for Chester to speak to him.

The statement adds that Telford have now reported Chester to the FA and the National League.

Dawson, who joined the Bucks in the summer, scored one goal in 14 appearances for the club.

The Blues have responded by 'strenuously deny any wrongdoing' over the potential transfer and that FA ratification for the deal is still being awaited.

A statement on the Chester FC website said: "Chester Football Club are aware of a statement made today by AFC Telford United regarding Adam Dawson.

"As a club we strenuously deny any wrongdoing and believe we have acted within all FA guidelines throughout the transfer negotiations with both Adam and his previous Club. We await FA ratification of this deal.

"At present the Club have no further comment to make on the situation."