As football continues to take an enforced break due to the coronavirus pandemic; Last Word on Football has taken a look at the Lincoln City contracts that are set to expire this summer.
The Lincoln City Contracts That Expire This Summer
Potential Squad Overhaul
Manager Michael Appleton could be set for a squad overhaul, as eight players are out of contract at the LNER Stadium this summer.
How to deal with the expiration of contracts this summer is currently undecided. Football is likely to continue past the date of June 30, and as a result, clubs up and down the country will see players become free agents.
Before the coronavirus outbreak caused a suspension to football, the Imps sat 15th in League One, with confirmation of safety on the horizon.
Lee Frecklington
The Lincoln born midfielder has been plagued by injuries for much of the season 2019/20 season.
He has featured just once so far this season, that being in a 3-0 win over Rotherham United in the EFL Trophy.
As a result, Appleton has never been able to use the 34-year-old frequently, and according to the Imps boss, a departure could be on the cards.
Neal Eardley
The right-back has been ever-present at the LNER Stadium since his arrival in 2017.
Eardley has been a major part in Lincoln’s story of success in recent years. He was part of the side that won the EFL Trophy in the 2017/18 side, and also helped the club earn promotion to League One this season.
The 31-year-old holds a strong presence in the side, having featured in all 35 games in the league so far this season.
Alan Sheehan
A new arrival in defence that is likely to remain with the club beyond the end of the season.
The Irishman can boast a 100% win record for the Imps, having made his debut in their 3-2 victory over Burton Albion, before the season was postponed indefinitely.
Sheehan arrived on a short-term contract to help cure Michael Appleton’s defensive problems. However, due to the unfortunate timing of his arrival, it is likely he will be with the club for the 2020/21 season.
Tom Pett
The 28-year-old midfielder is another who has been used sparingly under Michael Appleton.
Pett was a popular figure under Appleton’s predecessor Danny Cowley. He featured 49 times in League Two last season as they were promoted to League One as champions.
However, he has featured just twice so far this season, both of which were defeats. As a result, it would not be a surprise to see him depart this summer.
Harry Anderson
Initially a loan signing during the club’s return to the Football League, Harry Anderson has endured a successful four years in Lincoln.
The 23-year-old winger has adapted to divisions as the club have jumped through the Football League. So far this season he has registered seven goals in 34 appearances, including the winner in a 2-0 win over Rotherham United.
Clubs higher up may take a chance on him due to his age, but he can also continue to develop under Michael Appleton at Lincoln City.
Josh Vickers
While he was in-and-out of the side last season, Josh Vickers is now the undisputed first-choice at the LNER Stadium.
The 24-year-old has grown into his role as first-choice, fending off competition from Grant Smith, who has subsequently gone out on loan. He has made vital saves at key points this season.
Vickers is a popular choice among the fans and Appleton alike, meaning he is likely to remain with the club.
Akeem Hinds
Akeem Hinds will be judged on whether he has impressed enough in training to earn himself a new contract with the club.
The defender signed on a short-term deal in January after being let go by fellow League One side Rotherham United. However, he is yet to make it onto the pitch at the LNER Stadium.
In contrast to fellow short-term signing Sheehan, it would not be a surprise to see him leave in the summer.
Ellis Chapman
The youngster is one player who Imps fans would like to see remain at the club.
The 19-year-old is highly-rated by manager Michael Appleton, who took the unusual approach of confirming that he would be starting in his pre-match press conference before their game against Gillingham in November.
However, despite the high praise, his opportunities have been limited so far this season, partly due to the consistency of Joe Morell in midfield.
With several of the midfield returning to their parent clubs once the season is over, Chapman could be set for regular appearances in the first-team next season.
Main Photo
Embed from Getty Images
