AFC Telford United today confirmed they have taken up an option to re-sign out-of-contract duo Lee Vaughan and Andy Brown.

Chairman Lee Carter has written to the star pair, who are both likely to feature prominently in the club’s player of the year awards evening tomorrow.

The move means the two players, who are both aged under 24, will be contracted for next season and would command a transfer fee should any other club look to sign them.

Striker Brown scored 20 goals following his move from Nuneaton last summer, despite missing a chunk of the season through injury.

Right-back Vaughan was a consistent performer throughout, though his campaign ended on a low note when he was sent off in the Blue Square North play-off final defeat to Gateshead.

“Both players had options written into their contracts and I don’t think there was ever any doubt that we would take it up because of their ages,” said boss Rob Smith.

“Unless someone comes in for them they will remain Telford players.

“I wouldn’t stand in the way of any of my players progressing, but we’ve had no enquiries so far and I hope it stays that way.”

Meanwhile, Carter revealed he had already held one meeting with his manager to discuss next season’s budget and would sit down with him again on Monday to finalise plans.

“We will finalise everything on Monday and the club will be living within more stringent rules,” he added.

“I know I must sound like Alistair Darling (the Chancellor of the Exchequer), but it is the prudent thing to do.

“We will give the manager as much money as we can to build a squad, and it is about striking a balance – this club is in a great financial position and the supporters can be assured of that,” he added.

By CHRIS HUDSON