Cobblers in talks with players out of contract in the summer

The players include first team regulars Sam Hoskins, Rod McDonald and Lawson D’Ath, and manager Chris Wilder has made it clear he is keen to ensure those players extend their stays at Sixfields beyond this summer.

Hoskins and McDonald signed one-year deals after impressing on trial last summer, while D’Ath, signed an 18-month deal midway through last season

Other players out of contract include Josh Lelan, Evan Horwood and the injured Paul Corry.

Those whose deals run out are all entering the final six months of their Northampton contracts, but Wilder is pretty relaxed about that situation.

“We are talking to those players now,” said the Cobblers boss.

“We are in conversations, and there are ongoing discussions because they have done well.

“Sammy Hoskins has done well in his first year at the football club, as have Lawson and Rod.

“We are always looking short, medium and long-term on everything.

“Short term is Saturday and the upcoming games, medium term is towards the end of the season and long term is looking forward to make the club stronger in every aspect.

“Whether that is tying down important players or whatever, and this group has only really been together for a year.

“Some have been here a little bit longer, so it is growing and it’s getting better, and I expect it to get better.

“We have assets at the club, we have a vibrant, well-balanced side, there is a lot of energy in it, a lot of ability, and there is a good mix of older experienced players such as Marc Richards, Dave Buchanan and Jason Taylor, and young players that are having their first tase of League football on a regular basis.

“It’s Rodders’ first year, Lawson is only in his second year, Sammy Hoskins, and we have a good balance and a good mix in the group, and it is vital we have that.”