Sleaford Town boss Brian Rowland is optimistic he can hang on to rising star Miles Hunter – unless a Football League club joins the race to sign the talented striker.

The 21-year-old is one of hottest non-league prospects in the county after plundering 25 goals so far this season for the United Counties League outfit.

Boston United, Boston Town, Stamford and Corby are all chasing Hunter, while League Two duo Lincoln City and big-spending Notts County are believed to be monitoring his progress.

Sleaford's long-serving manager Rowland insists he wouldn't stand in the promising youngster's way if he desired a move away from Eslaforde Park.

However, the prolific Hunter has indicated to Rowland that he wants to see out the season with Sleaford, where he has formed a formidable partnership with fellow forward Ryan Oliver, who was plucked fro Sunday League football.

"There's been a lot of club interested in him," admitted Rowland, who has managed the club since 1979.

"The two Boston clubs want to sign him, while Stamford and Corby have also registered their interest.

"Obviously I would like him to stay, but I would never stand in his way if he wanted to move.

"But we've talked to him about it and he says he wants to stay. I think he'll be with us until the end of the season – unless a Football League come in for him.

"I've heard Lincoln City and Notts County have been looking at him, but we've had nothing official from them.

"If he moves on, I'd like him to go to play at a higher level, he's certainly capable of that.

"He's very quick and he's a great finisher. He's one of the best young players I've worked with.

"I wouldn't like to lose him to a club at the same level as us (Boston Town also play in the UCL Premier Division)."

Hunter is well aware of the mounting interest being shown in him, but Rowland insists the player is taking it all in his stride.

"He's a very level headed lad," added Rowland. "He's not letting it affect him at all, he's taking it all in his stride."

Hunter spent time at both the Imps and Pilgrims as a youngster before re-launching his career at Sleaford.