Bucks in talks over players

AFC Telford United are to open talks on new deals with existing players as manager Rob Smith looks to bolster his side ahead of an assault on a top five finish next season.

Chairman Lee Carter today confirmed talks on which players Smith will retain are to begin this week.

And Smith will be looking to retain the services of key players after Carter hinted the club will take a measured approach in the summer transfer market because of its "stringent means".

"The manager has to go through the squad and retain those he wants but news of that should emerge in the next couple of days," said Carter.

"In the past we have done our business in the immediate two weeks after the season ends, but this year there are 700 players available so the squad building will be a longer process.

"The manager has to work within more stringent means and the pennies are tighter this year so we have to consider things a bit more and try not to jump in too early in the pre-season.

"But generally it will be a case of trying to assemble a squad to help challenge for the top five spots."

Meanwhile The Bucks have dished out end of season awards to players at a special ceremony held in a marquee on the pitch at the The New Bucks Head and attended by about 300 people.

Carl Rodgers won Club Player of the Year while keeper Ryan Young picked up Supporters' Player of the Year, Away Travel Supporters' Player of the Year and Vice President's Player of the Year.

Lee Vaughan won Junior Bucks' Player of the Year and Players' Player of the Year.

Two fans – Linda and Roger Francis – who together picked up the unsung hero award, were honoured for their support and help in sweeping the terraces before and after games.

By TOM JOHANSAN