Soccer: Batty off to trial with Grimsby

By TERRY MADDAFORD

Jason Batty is set to resume his soccer career on the other side of the world, despite a tentative approach to reconsider his future with the Football Kingz.

Although Batty has not spoken to anyone from the Auckland-based franchise, there have been suggestions that Kingz player-coach Wynton Rufer tested the water by attempting to contact Batty last weekend.

Earlier this month, the Kingz cut All Whites goalkeeper Batty from their squad after signing, sight unseen, Argentine Julio Cuello, leaving an upset Batty to ponder his future, and still retaining the second year of his two-year contract.

"I haven't spoken to Wynton but have heard from some people that he tried to contact me," said Batty. "I have no idea why he wanted to talk to me after I heard nothing for three weeks. After the way they treated me, it would be difficult to consider returning to the club."

Instead, Batty is looking forward to trials and training with English first division club Grimsby Town.

He is awaiting confirmation of flight details.

"An opportunity has been presented to me," said Batty. "It is good to feel you are wanted. The situation here is not the best. It has been tough training by myself and when this chance came up, I was keen to look at it. Nothing is guaranteed. It is up to me. I'm going for three months initially to see what happens. Even if things do not work out there, I should not have a problem finding a club."

Batty, who had a stint at Norwich a few years ago, has talked things over with All Whites' coach Ken Dugdale and assured him he is still keen to play internationally and will ensure he keeps himself in shape.

Until he signs with another club, Batty remains a contracted Kingz player.