ANGRY Darlington boss David Hodgson last night criticised League Two rivals Notts County following the collapse of Matt Clarke's move to Meadow Lane.

Hodgson is unhappy that relegated County have meddled with his first-team plans ahead of the new season after abandoning their interest in Clarke and agreeing terms with Northampton defender Rob Ullathorne yesterday.

Last month County boss Gary Mills confirmed his interest in Clarke. However, Mills last night admitted the 23-year-old was only on a short-list of possible alternatives to number one target Ullathorne.

"Matt Clarke was always one of the players high up on our list but Rob was the one we really wanted and I am delighted to have signed him," said Mills.

Mills' comments have angered Hodgson, who had lined up released Barnsley defender Craig Ireland as a replacement for Clarke.

"I'm extremely annoyed by what has happened," said Hodgson.

"I'm delighted Matt will be staying with us but Notts County have shown a complete lack of professionalism.

"As soon as they pulled the plug on Matt we had to pull the plug on Craig Ireland."

Meanwhile Hodgson will introduce three new faces to his Quakers squad, which re-assembles for pre-season training in Richmond this morning.

Former Newcastle full-back Joe Kendrick has joined Quakers on a free transfer from 1860 Munich after signing a one-year deal yesterday.

Hodgson has already signed released Middlesbrough goalkeeper Sam Russell and Wrexham midfielder Stephen Thomas.

Quakers midfielder Ashley Nicholls is close to joining League Two rivals Cambridge United.

The 22-year-old enjoyed a successful loan spell with the Us last season and looks set to sign a two-year deal at the Abbey Stadium.

Us secretary Andy Pincher said: "We're just waiting for Darlington. I was expecting something on Monday, but their secretary still needs to speak to the manager. I don't envisage there being any problems, but he just needs to cancel his contract up there before he can sign."

* Welsh champions Rhyl remain hopeful of signing Paul Gascoigne in time for their Champions League qualifier against Skonto Riga.

A deal must be done by July 7 for the former England World Cup star to be available for the first leg of the European clash against the Latvians. But even if it is not, the Lilywhites would still like Gascoigne for the remainder of the season and are hoping he will agree to a 12-month contract.

The Welsh Premier outfit won the league last season, losing just once, and won three cups.

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