The axe has fallen!

09 May 2000

Gary Megson has announced the players he wants to keep and the ones he doesn't. The four out of contract players that have been released are Sean Flynn, Andy McDermott, Graham Potter and Mark Angel. Flynn is the only one whose name may come as a suprise to many fans, as he has been a regular in the side as it battled to escape the drop to Division Two - but he wanted a two year contract and had already turned down a single year under Brian Little, and Megson obviously feels that, given his age, it would be better to base the future midfield on new blood rather than old. Flynn has already come out saying that he understands the decision, and that he has enjoyed working with Megson over the last couple of months. The other three names come as no suprise, having played virtually no part at all in the closing stages of the campaign.

Placed on the transfer list are long serving defender Paul Raven and striker Fabian DeFreitas. Raven has just finished his testimonial season (fellow long server Daryl Burgess has one this year) and has made a few appearances recently, putting in solid performances that have certainly helped in the fight for survival. Raven has been the subject of a number of bids over the years, and seems sure to attract interest from other clubs. DeFreitas, on the other hand, had a run in the team under Megson, but was dropped towards the end of the season with signs being shown of a bit of a conflict between the two regarding his attitude - Megson has even been overheard on occasions telling him to "run properly"! Unfortunately, the wages he's picking up may serve as a deterrent to any club showing interest, and a move might not be as easy as it sounds.

Reports suggest that short-term signing Georges Santos has been offered a new contract with the Club, which he is currently considering. Santos, certainly, would act as a very suitable replacement for Flynn - having added significant bite to the midfield since his arrival from Tranmere. No word has yet been heard, however, on whether moves have been made to offer a contract to Des Lyttle, who has made an outstanding contribution to the side, or to attempt to make a bid to sign Neil Clement, who has certainly improved since his first few games on loan from Chelsea.

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