No Alex Future For Gardner

Young hopeful Danny Gardner has been told that his short term contract will not be extended this summer after making just two substitute appearances this season.

The former Celtic striker signed a short term deal in January as an 'extended trial'. Gardner went on to make two brief first team appearances in March and April, against Port Vale and Accrington respectively, but failed to impress.

After injuring his ankle last week he has been ruled out of action for the final game of the season on Saturday and Dario says that his stay will not be extended in the summer.

Dario told the official website that he has let Gardner go reluctantly, admitting he could still have a future in the game.

'Danny has done okay for us but he hasn't got us on the edge of our seats and looked like he would make a real difference.

'I am reluctant to let him go because I think he could develop into a good player but he has just run of time here.'

Dario will now offer a chance to academy youngster Ajay Leitch-Smith to earn a new contract. The youngster is also facing the chop this but after an impressive loan spell at Curzon Ashton he is likely to get some first team action at Gresty Road on the final day of the season.

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