VICTORY over Notts County today will bring Andy King a step closer to announcing 'big and difficult' contract decisions.
The futures of Danny Invincible, Eric Sabin and the other out-of-contract staff are being thrashed out behind the scenes.
Speculation is rife among fans and it is clear that not all those out of contract will either choose to stay or be offered new deals.
But King is adamant that Town are not yet safe and the last thing he wants is commitment levels dropping or the crowd getting on the backs of those who do not wish to stay.
He said: "There are developments but I'm not prepared to make things public yet.
"There are big decisions and maybe difficult ones for people to accept.
"Some might be out of my hands.
"And on that front I am aware of a few more decisions that have been
finalised. But as soon as we are safe I will tell everyone what is going on."
Victory over the Magpies would take Town to 50 points with 52 now seen as the minimal survival target.
However King has revealed that Keith O'Halloran will be given pre-season to show he is capable of challenging for a starting slot.
"Keith has got to have a plate out of his leg. It is restricting his ankle movements.
"If all goes well, he will get two or three weeks' headstart on the others for next season.
"His contract ends in July and I would like to give Keith that month to see what level he can get to.
"I think we as a club owe him that."
As for today's clash, King has a couple of potential selection headaches.
He said: "Eric has still got flu and Junior Lewis limped out of training yesterday.
"So we will just have to wait and see."
However Danny Invincible did train and will be available for selection.
As for today's visitors, King knows his side must be wary of a backlash.
He said: "Notts County had an awful result and performance at Northampton in midweek.
"I hope there won't be a reaction from them.
"They have a strong squad and I'm surprised they are not challenging further up the table.
"Mark Stallard has scored goals for them and they have Tony Hackworth on the bench.
"But as for my players, I will be demanding the same commitment that was shown against Bristol City.
"I won't accept another Cheltenham, Northampton or Mansfield display."
Tickets are now on sale for the FA Nationwide Women's Premier League Cup Final at the County Ground next Sunday.
The match between Arsenal and Fulham kicks off at 2.15pm.
Further details on 01793 333777.
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