Two out as three get deals at Bucks

Rob Smith has started AFC Telford United’s summer shake-up - by releasing two players and offering contracts to three more.Striker Luke Reynolds and defender Richard Teesdale have both been told they have no part to play with the club next season.

But there was better news for goalkeeper Ryan Young, who has been awarded a two-year contract. Defender Jimmy Turner and midfielder Jamie Vermiglio have both got one-year deals.

It means the Bucks now have six players signed up for next season, with the latest trio joining new arrival Liam Blakeman, centre-back Stuart Whitehead and midfielder Emeka Nwadike.

Turner skippered the side for most of this season, and Smith declared: “He’s never been on contract here before but he’s gone through brick walls for us and it’s the least he deserves.

“He’s got to have ankle and knee operations in the summer and he’s been playing through the pain barrier from early on in the season.”

Smith is also delighted to have secured Vermiglio and player of the year Young on contract deals as well.

“Giving Ryan a two-year contract is a no-brainer for me,” he said. “We’re not usually that keen on handing out two-year deals, but in this case it makes sense.

“It baffles me that no-one else has taken a look at him because he’s the best keeper in the league.

“Jamie’s a quality midfielder and he’s the kind of player we want to keep.

Smith admits it was tough having to tell Reynolds and Teesdale that their futures lay away from the club, but revealed both players took the news well.

“It hasn’t quite worked out for Luke,” he added. “He’s had a tough season and he’s at an age where he wants to play regular football. His attitude has been first class and he’s been a pleasure to be around.

“Tees has had a horrendous year and it’s been a real shame for him. He had an injury that hampered his pre-season and never really got to the required fitness levels.”

By Chris Hudson