Cheshunt home on Saturday.

[Jamie]

I think the decision on contracts needs to be reviewed, players in their late 30s approaching 40 getting a contract is odd to say the least.
Not as if a pro club is going to come in for them offering a fee, and if they want to leave for a few more quid is it worth the risk on older players who are more likely to get injured, and when on contract pick up their money regardless, even if unavailable.

[Tony]

It rather depends on what the contract terms are doesn’t it. I have no idea of what the contract terms are for the current manager but I would be surprised if there weren’t mutual notice periods which allowed either party to exit before the headline timeframe expired. Players are a different matter as the current market position is that everyone demands a minimum one year contract. Clubs do not appear to be able to resist this at present.

[Lord Elpus]

I didn't realise that was the current market position. How completely ridiculous if so.

[Tony]

I guess it is the old supply and demand equation and the increased involvement of agents at our level. The problem is when you get a number of long term injuries to contracted players. You might be able to negotiate to reduce payment on a voluntary basis but in other cases you might not. Loan players become very attractive options to fill the gaps in the squad as you are only paying a percentage of their wages and are not locked in for more than a few weeks or months. The downside as we knows that continuity goes out of the window and fan engagement with players inevitably suffers.

[Lord Elpus]

Tony's explanation above certainly sums up why things often feels so distant nowadays, not like in the era of Cheshire, Hollands, Tunesi, Gardner etc. Shame.

[Shepperton Supporter]

Think it will depend overnight as to whether the pitch is playable. Probably ok at present but would expect a decision early tomorrow, so alternative arrangements can be made if required.

[Lord Elpus]

Looks extremely icy outside at the moment, so I would think it must be in a lot of doubt this afternoon. The sun's out though...

[Shepperton Supporter]

Pitch inspection at 11 am. Not looking promising.

[Lord Elpus]

Pitch inspection at 11 am. Not looking promising.

Shame, 11.00 is almost certainly going to be too early. Ah well.

[TW2-Beaver]

Match OFF. Confirmed by the club via email.

[HamptonMad]

Thank you. Off to Spain for a warm

[Shepperton Supporter]

I read that this fixture has been rearranged for next Saturday. Hope the weather is better.