Carshalton Athletic boss Hayden Bird has admitted he still expects Liam Harwood to depart Colston Avenue despite the defender’s move to Bromley collapsing.

Harwood looked set to switch to the Blue Square South outfit after impressing on trial.

But the deal caved in over financial matters.

Bird explained: “The facts are quite clear.

“Liam is under 24 and without a contract, so he was free to talk to them.

“We asked for £10,000 compensation for the player but they said they were prepared to pay no more than £500 which was unacceptable for us.

“We have put three years into his development and thought the offer was fair.

“After we suggested going to a tribunal they said they were withdrawing their offer.”

But Bird then revealed that when Bromley backed out, the big-boys stepped in.

He added: “He has returned to us but is now going on trial with Bristol Rovers.

“I think he has a chance of making it as a pro.

“I would be absolutely delighted for him if he made it.

“We were never going to stand in the way of him making it big.”

Switching attention back to what he has, Bird remains optimistic about the Robins’ chances for the coming season.

And with the visit of Basingstoke, and the return of former bad-boy Phil Ruggles coming this weekend, the Carshalton manager is in good spirits.

Bird added: “When you sign so many new players like we have it obviously takes time.

“But the team are gelling well which is the most important thing.

“Saturday will be interesting as Ruggles could well be playing.

“I am pretty sure he will get a warm welcome!”