Give or take a few words that’s exactly the conversation I had with a friend yesterday. Even mentioned the same clubs.
Daddy - is that you?
Yeah it'd be interesting to see if the badges element ties him a little bit. Not necessarily contractually but maybe via honouring getting his badges finished. Although I imagine he can complete some in June surely?
As you mentioned, it's anyone's guess. I think he may ''just'' stay.
Probably in the minority but if it's a choice between Austin and signing Jephcott I'd go for the latter
Contrary to my last sentence to DV, and based off Jepcott's last few games I would keep him in terms of longevity of personnel. That probably goes without saying as age/fitness levels of our youth bequeaths us all. I think the conundrum is that these two players can't really play in the same team at the same time. A system will work for one but not the other. Obviously on measure, it seems like Jephcott can play in the current system and if given the service/right set up then he too will get goals. I think we can still apply this to Austin too of course.
If we're talking contracts, I think Town should probably offer both something and see who seems most keen/blinks first. Jephcott might want to get out of dodge but he might also see value in what Morris is trying to build squad wise for next season. Austin might want to explore the idea of one last pay day higher up as he might not get chance again, a two year contract in a low end Champ or any League One club would be very attractive for him and he could probably command that. He might also see value in what Morris is trying to achieve/build squad wise, as well as take on a role that lays down his future in football off the pitch and that would be attractive to him.
In conclusion, it could be that Town end up keeping both? If you have a system that suits Jephcott, coupled with Wakeling as a front two then Jephcott will probably continue his recent form and Wakeling will definitely develop and get better by being second striker. Austin effectively would then come off the bench most games to help see out a match and start the occasional game/injury cover. Giving him chance to focus on completing his badges whilst still aiding Town as a very good/luxury squad player.
The last remaining question really, despite maybe being slightly torn on which player we as fans would like to keep or not, is would either of them actually want to stay?
