Ted Bishop

The biggest question has got to be around Ted Bishop. He’s out of contract; we know that from discussions in the media, and as I explored earlier this week, his quality has never really been in doubt. Michael Skubala definitely likes him, and I’ve seen a lot of supporters clamouring for him to be retained.

There are two barriers to that – the first will be his current deal. I believe it is unlikely anyone out of contract will be offered the same terms. If Ted is to stay, it may be on a reduced wage, and that’s where other factors come into play. We’re likely to be prepping for the introduction of a wage cap or some sort of spending restriction. If that’s firmed up and other clubs are doing the same, keeping Ted around the team will be easier. If other teams are not playing ball, he is the type of player they’ll take a punt on, without a doubt.

Personal opinion? I think, given that another of our creative talents could be out of contract, there’s a possibility that we might work to keep Ted. If we can keep him fit for 35 games a season, and keep getting the best out of him by playing him centrally and letting him pull the strings, then keeping him is a no-brainer. As someone who has been critical of him at times, I hope me changing my tune is an indication of how impressed I have been with Ted in spells. On his day, he’s the best player in our squad.