Lawrence: "That's All Folks!"

By: Bill Osborne
Date: 31/05/2001

MARINERS boss Lennie Lawrence has ruled out any further signings until July saying he wants first to sort out arrangements with the out-of-contract players . "Apart from Stuart [Campbell], there are not going to be any imminent signings until we get back in July." the Grimsby manager revealed today.

Lawrence completed his first signing of the summer yesterday, securing the services for three years of Leicester City midfielder Stuart Campbell at a cost of £200,000. Campbell had spent the bulk of last season on a long-term loan from the Foxes, and is expected to take over Kevin Donovan's slot on the wide right of midfield.

Wayne Burnett, Peter Handyside, Stacy Coldicott and Kevin Donovan are the players Lawrence is presently having contract discussions with but he is resigned to the fact that Donovan will be leaving the club with Nottingham Forest being the latest club linked to the 29-year-old.

On the players, Lennie told Mariners Net, "I have spoken to Stacy and it is unresolved at the minute. I need to speak to Wayne Burnett again and that is also unresolved at the moment."

"Peter Handyside has indicated he wants to keep his options open until he comes back in July, and if they do sign, they are going to get more than they were on before, so we've got to match that up against the need to bring new people in." said Lawrence, which appeared to be an obvious reference to available funds.

This announcement will probably not quieten the rumour mill that has been in full force these last few weeks with everyone from Clive Mendonca to Sol Campbell being linked to the club.