Ricky Anderson has been given until the end of the week to decide if he wants to be part of Essex's future.

The 25-year-old fast bowler was offered a new contract at the end of last season but has yet to put pen to paper.

Since then there have been ongoing negotiations with the player - but to no avail.

So club chiefs have told Anderson his contract offer will be withdrawn unless it is signed by Friday.

"The club offered Ricky a three-year contract in September but, despite numerous attempts to conclude the deal, we have yet to receive confirmation that he wishes to play for the county next season," said Essex chief executive David East.

"The county has always viewed Ricky as an important member of the squad and he certainly features in head coach Graham Gooch's plans for the future.

"However, if he chooses not to remain at Essex it is crucial that we establish this as soon as possible so that other arrangements can be made to balance our squad."

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Published Tuesday January 15, 2002