Striker Oliver offered 'good deal' to stay at Cobblers

The big striker joined last summer from Morecambe on a one-year deal, and was offered a new contract at the beginning of this month, having enjoyed a strong season and played a major role in Town's stunning Sky Bet League Two play-off success.

He was one three players offered new deals after the 4-0 win over Exeter City at Wembley, and although Sam Hoskins and Michael Harriman quickly put pen to paper, Oliver is taking his time.

Manager Keith Curle confirmed recently that the 28-year-old has been attracting interest from other clubs, and Thomas says the player is well within his rights to weigh up all his options.

But the Town chairman admitted the club is also looking at other options in Oliver's position, and that he is confident that if the player decides to go elsewhere, a suitable replacement will be signed.

"Vadaine has been offered a contract that we think is reasonable, and we think is a good deal for him," said Thomas.

"He did very well for us last season, and it is up to him to look around and see what is available, and we understand that.

"But we are also looking at other targets as well in that sort of position, and it is a little bit of a waiting game on both sides and we'll see what we can do.

"If Vadaine comes in the building then fantastic, but if he doesn't then that is fine and the club will move on and recruit players to come into all areas of the team to improve."

Thomas went on to warn supporters that this summer could be one where they have to be extra patient when it comes to players being signed by the club.

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the transfer window has only just opened and clubs will be able to do business until October, well after the season start date of September 12.

That means it could be very late in the day before squads are finalised, and Thomas told ntfc.co.uk: "This is not going to be a normal window, it's not going to be a normal pre-season, it's not going to be a normal start to the season.

"I think we will see players sign for clubs much later this year, much closer to the start of the season because it is such a quick turnaround, and we still have teams playing in th Championship (play-offs), which affects matters in terms of loan players, etc.

"But we have tremendous trust and faith in Keith and the recruitment staff and the coaching staff to bring the right type of players in."