WEYMOUTH boss Geoff Butler is resigned to losing star man Ryan Cross.

The out-of-contract defender, who moved to the Wessex Stadium from Dorchester Town two years ago, has failed to agree to the manager's new tougher training schedule.

Plymouth-based Cross, 29, who works in the city as a fitness instructor, is now expected to join Dr Martens Premier Division Tiverton Town.

Butler explained: "Ryan is one of a number of out-of-contract players I want to keep at Weymouth, but I've not been able to tie any of them up yet because I'm still negotiating with the seven lads who are on contracts.

"But I have spoken to Ryan and told him what I'm expecting to be able to offer him and what my plans are and unfortunately it doesn't look like we're going to be able to come to an agreement.

"One of the major stumbling blocks is training because it's my intention to get all the boys in twice a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays. I know that's going to be difficult for a few of them who live out of the area and from time to time allowances can be made.

"However, in Ryan's case it looks almost impossible for him to get up twice a week at all. As I've said, missing sessions now and then is one thing, but only being able to get up once a week is not acceptable and so we have a problem."

He added: "That's not to say there's no hope of him signing, but it does look very doubtful that he'll be with us next season. He's going to think it over for a few more days, but it doesn't look very promising."

Cross, who turned down a loan move to Weston-super-Mare at the end of last season - is now being tipped to link up with former Terra Martyn Rogers at Tivvy, although Butler said a number of clubs are chasing the ex-Plymouth and Hartlepool man.

"I've always been a big fan of his," said the manager. "He did an excellent job during his time with Dorchester and has done the same in his two seasons at Weymouth.

"I know his name has often been linked with Tiverton and I'm sure they'll be interested, but I do know that he's already had offers from a few other teams.

"With the financial restraints that now exist down here, we've just not got the cash available to go fending off clubs who come in with decent offers for players. It's disappointing because I don't want him to leave, but it appears that that will now be the case."