A HOST of non-league clubs are rumoured to be interested in signing centre-back Paul Cousins after he was released by King’s Lynn Town this week.

The former Wisbech Town captain - who joined Lynn in the summer - was fast becoming a fans’ favourite for his fearless displays at the heart of the Linnets’ defence.

However, he was released from his contract at The Walks following an internal dispute which also saw joint Lynn boss Kevin Boon quit.

Cousins’ departure created a massive stir but at least six clubs are still thought to be interested in signing the highly-rated centre-back who gained vast experience at Step 5 of the non-league pyramid with the Fenmen.

United Counties Premier Division outfits Holbeach United and Spalding United are believed to be interested in Cousins - although joining either club would set up a potentially explosive league fixture against his former Lynn team-mates.

The 29-year-old’s future may lie in the Ridgeons Premier Division with Norwich United thought to be chasing the inspirational defender’s signature.

Cousins may yet return to the league with former clubs Dereham Town or Wisbech - whose boss Steve Appleby refused to rule out the possibility of sensationally re-signing the powerful defender.

However, the most attractive option for Cousins may be the supposed interest of former team-mate Andy Furnell, who manages Step 4 side Soham Town Rangers in the Ryman League Division One North.

The former Fenmen captain - who has also played for Ely City and March Town United - has never played at that level of the non-league ladder despite making more than 200 appearances in non-league football.