COLIN Todd was back at his desk today with his top priority likely to be fighting off a bid from Everton for Alan Thompson.

The Merseysiders have a firm interest in taking the Wanderers midfield ace to Goodison Park but are not expected to make an offer until next week at the earliest.

That could open the way for a host of other admirers to move in and tempt a player who is widely believed to be of top Premiership quality.

But while rival clubs are eager to recruit Thompson's talents, Todd is equally determined to keep all of his top stars at the Reebok for next season's First Division campaign when Wanderers will bid to make an instant return to the Premiership.

Goodison boss Howard Kendall is yet to make contact with Todd but today spoke of his admiration for Thompson.

"Alan Thompson is a very talented player," he said.

"And with Bolton going down if there was a possibility that he was available then Everton would be interested.

"But I should also stress that I don't think Everton would be the only club interested.

"He has proved he is a very gifted midfield player who scores goals and he has proved that, not just this season, but in other seasons as well."

Everton's is the only concrete interest in Thompson although Leeds boss George Graham in a known long time admirer of the 24-year-old while Aston Villa, Spurs and Middlesbrough are also being linked.

Everton are ready to pay £3.5million for Thompson but sources on Merseyside believe that Goodison chiefs are not confident about their chances of securing Thompson's services if he does become available with the feeling around Everton being that Leeds would be the favourites.

If Everton follow up the speculation with a bid it will anger Todd who is unhappy with clubs conducting their business through the media rather than speaking to him first.

Former Wanderers defender Bryan Small, who helped complete Bury's First Division survival mission last season is set for talks over a new contract at Gigg Lane.

Small is the only Bury player currently not under contract.

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