SIMEON Akinola has been urged to stay at Braintree Town and earn a move into the Football League.

The 23-year-old forward has just enjoyed an impressive campaign for the Iron, hitting the net nine times and playing a big part in them reaching the National League play-offs.

Akinola was regularly been watched by a host of league scouts last season and has been linked with a move away from Cressing Road.

New Braintree boss Jamie Day believes the former Harrow Borough striker can play at a higher level – but wants him to stay put next season and enhance his reputation at his current club.

Day said: “Simeon Akinola is contracted to Braintree for another year.

“He wants to play in the Football League which is understandable but what we’ve said to him is to have another good season with Braintree and get your move into the league.”

Day has been busy bringing in new signings over recent days, as he attempts to strengthen his squad ahead of the new National League season.

Former Spurs and Southampton striker Lee Barnard and ex-Dover Athletic player Craig Braham-Barrett have both been snapped up, while Braintree have also agreed terms with a Championship defender.

Day, who also wrapped up the signing of Barney Williams last week, has also stepped up his search for a new goalkeeper.

He said: “Over the last few weeks, we’ve been talking to a lot of players and the players we’ve signed so far fit in to the way that we want to do things.

“Hopefully, more of the players that we’ve spoken to will come in.

“We need to sort out a few more and I’m hoping to get another three or four in.”

Day will hold further talks with Mitch Brundle this week and says he hopes to keep the versatile youngster at the club.

Day said: “Mitch is a player we want to keep and we’ve had discussions with him.

“He had a very good back end of the season last year and at the age of 21, he’s one that can potentially kick on.”