The friendly, that will see a number of senior and youth team players line-up alongside numerous trialists, will take place this afternoon against Rushden & Diamonds. The match will give the club the chance to assess their options, with various players coming available in the summer under the Bosman ruling.
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One of those coming available in the summer is former Bolton full-back, Leam Richardson, who featured during the Magpies’ ‘Great Escape’ campaign of the 2001/02 campaign.
Richardson’s contract is set to expire in the summer months, making him available to transfer without cost, should the Magpies wish to pursue his signature.
Richardson made sixteen league starts for the Magpies almost three years ago, becoming an influential part of the Magpies’ survival strategy during his loan period from Bolton Wanderers.
Besides Richardson, the Magpies will also be keeping tabs on are Karim El-Salahi of Crystal Palace, and Stacey Long (Charlton), who has been impressive in recent reserve outings of late.
In any case, the friendly – taking place this afternoon – will give current boss Richardson food for thought ahead of the close season.
Be sure that NCM will bring you any further developments of the friendly, and indeed any other word from the club over the course of the week.