Stags trio could be tempted away

But he admitted Lindon Meikle, Anthony Howell and Junior Daniel could be tempted by bigger and better offers from clubs higher up while Alan Marriott is still in negotiations and youngsters Jack Thomas and Liam Marsden are also yet to sign.

Cox, who made his first summer signing with the return of Luke Jones last night, said: “Talks are ongoing with Alan Marriott and the two young lads are mulling it over.

“I have sat down with Lindon Meikle, Anthony Howell and Junior Daniel. But they are free to talk to other clubs and I know all three are talking to some pretty big clubs at the moment.

“My hands are tied a bit with what I can do with them. I hope to know something by the end of the week, but I know that some of the clubs they are talking to are in a higher division and that is something I have got to accept.

“You have to be selfish in this game. It is a horrible, nasty business and players have to look after their own futures and families.”