Still no move for Stags star Clucas

Stags’ talented youngster, who is currently top scorer, is said to be a target of a Championship club.

Clucas, who has just returned from injury this week and came on as a substitute last weekend, could be in line for a start at Plymouth on Saturday- if he is still with the club.

“I have not had a phone call or any enquiries for Sam yet, but 24 hours is a long time in football,” said Cox. “I would like to just switch my phone off, but I can’t do that.

“Sam is a lovely kid and works extremely hard. I am sure at some point he will make the step up.

“He is on a learning curve and I want him to stay with us and make the next part of his journey with us.

“He has been able to shrug off the speculation as he has broad shoulders. There have been jokes in training and a bit of banter, but he has taken it in his stride.”

On Clucas’ fitness, Cox added: “He came in after a couple of days as stiff as a board.

“Do I start him on Saturday? It’s a tough one and a decision I need to make with my head and not my heart.

“My heart tells me to chuck him in. But he is a quality footballer and I have got to be careful as we have some important games coming up between now and the end of the season. Rushing players can sometimes put them back.”

Ben Hutchinson is also ready to rejoin the squad after injury.

“We have to be even more careful with Ben as it was a muscle injury,” said Cox. “I will speak to them both and if they feel fit enough they may play on Saturday.”