Stags hoping to close Taylor deal

Stags manager Paul Cox is hoping he can agree a deal with trialist Rob Taylor to join the club this week after several decent pre-season friendly displays.
Mansfield boss Paul Cox -Pic by: Richard ParkesMansfield boss Paul Cox -Pic by: Richard Parkes
Mansfield boss Paul Cox -Pic by: Richard Parkes

He will sit down with the former Port Vale winger and see what can be agreed before the opening game at Northampton next weekend.

But it now looks unlikely trialist midfielder Anthony Griffith will sign with finances so tight.

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“Rob has done well for us and has achieved a promotion out of this league before,” said Cox.

“So I would like to sit down and see if we can get something sorted.

“He adds another dimension to us.

“I have been totally honest with Rob. It’s all about the budget. I hope we can put a package together and hopefully we are close.

“But if we can’t get something done I do have other irons in the fire, though they would have to be loans.

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“But Anthony Griffith is now back training with Port Vale and it probably doesn’t look like I am going to be able to do anything with him.

“I do like him – he has experience and know-how we are going to need. But it’s all down to finance.”

Stags ended their pre-season with a 0-0 home draw with League one Walsall today and Cox said: “All our pre-season games have been good work-outs.

“Little by little I have learned about individuals and the group. We have had questions asked of us as a team, about our fitness and our shape.

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“Walsall are a quality side and we have kept a clean sheet today.

“I was a bit disappointed with us going forward, though.

“But I had to make some big decisions. Liam Hearn played the first 45 minutes but I don’t want to rush him.

“Also, I left Matt Rhead out as he is suspended at the start of the season.

“But there were a lot of positives and lots of things we can improve on. They are an honest group who want to work.

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“Football management is all about problem solving and since the end of last season I have had a million and one problems to solve. That’s not a bad thing and it’s a good education for me. It keeps me on my toes.

“We know it’s going to be a tough season. But I am really positive about this group of players.

“I can’t wait for the season to start now. Pre-season can go on a bit too long and the boys just want a proper game now.”

Ritchie Sutton came off during the match with a tight groin but it is hoped it’s nothing more serious while Luke Jones will play some part of a behind-closed-doors friendly on Tuesday as Stags bid to start the season with a clean bill of health.