BARRY Hayles has rejected a chance to rejoin former club Stevenage Borough to remain with Cheltenham Town.

The Blue Square Premier League club contacted Robins boss Mark Yates about the 37-year-old, who said he had no interest in the move.

Hayles made his name at Stevenage, who he fired to the Conference title in 1996-97.

His prolific form earned him a £250,000 move to Bristol Rovers and he joined Fulham for £2 million in 1998, who he helped reach the Premier League three years later.

Boss Graham Westley's Stevenage side are currently top of their division, one point ahead of Oxford United, who have two games in hand.

Stevenage were believed to have made an approach for Hayles when he was a free agent last summer following his release from Leicester City, but he signed a one-year deal at Cheltenham.

And the ex-Jamaican international has once again turned down a chance to return to Broadhall Way.

"Stevenage have asked me about Barry and I spoke to him about it, but he isn't interested at the moment, so that's the end of the matter," Yates said.

"That's the only call I have had, which is surprising, but that's the way it is."

Hayles has scored five goals for Cheltenham this season, but he has not started any of the last three games, with Justin Richards and Julian Alsop preferred up front.

"We have just had three tough away games and I think Justin and Jules have done a great job for us," Yates said.

"There have been games where we have needed them to come and do some defensive work as well, but Barry and Elvis (Hammond) will get their chance."

Yates has so far brought in Danny Andrew from Peterborough on a month's loan as well as extending the temporary spells of David Pipe, Ashley Eastham and Joss Labadie.

He is hoping to make one more signing before the transfer window closes at the end of this month.

"I have identified a number of players, but there is one in particular I'd like to bring in," Yates said. "Ideally we'd like one more in.

"We will try and make sure we cover all bases and if we can do something then great."

Cheltenham were due to play Swindon Town in a reserve friendly at Seasons today (12.30pm), with trial midfielder Claus Jorgensen set to feature.

"Claus is a good player and he has a great attitude," Yates said.

"If we think he can do something, we'll look at it after the match."