Lawrence: Hands Off!

By: Bill Osborne
Date: 30/01/2001

Lennie Lawrence Grimsby Town's manager has issued a public warning to other clubs that none of his players are for sale. This is a clear indication from Lawrence that he is not prepared to allow players who are vital in the battle to avoid relegation to be snatched up by other clubs.

The news that Wayne Burnett, Danny Coyne and Danny Butterfield were being viewed by Nottingham Forest may have been the reason for the statement. Although no approach has been made by Forest it is no secret that David Platt has had his eye on the three players for some time.

If an approach is made, it places Lawrence in a seemingly impossible situation. If a reasonable offer is made and he refuses, the club could lose a considerable amount of cash and he may well be placed in a position where he cannot refuse.

It was also revealed today that although the fans are appealing to manager Lawrence to negotiate a contract with Wayne Burnett (left), it is Burnett himself who has declined a contract until the end of the season as he is reported to be seeking a longer term and has decided to remain on a month by month basis. Should he decide to leave, Lawrence said he would be powerless to stop him.

With 12 players out of contract at the end of the season, the manager is now turning his attention to the new contracts and it appears that Kevin Donovan (left) may soon sign a new deal. One thing is clear, not all the players are prepared to negotiate a new deal.

Lawrence has declared his intention to renew contracts with those who have decided to stay by May. Other players have decided to wait until the end of the season before making a decision. No information has been forthcoming so far as to who the respective players are.

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