Quakers boss has players in sights

Jun 2 2009 by Mark Douglas, The Journal

COLIN Todd has lined up two players who have agreed to join Darlington when the cash-strapped Quakers exit administration.

The Journal also understands that Dean Windass has agreed to become Todd’s number two in a player/coach role.

Darlington-based businessman Raj Singh is poised to complete his takeover of the ailing Quakers but the finer points of the deal will not be completed for at least another seven days.

Singh told The Journal that he is still confident of assuming control despite hints from former chairman George Houghton that he would only have until the end of the week to come up with financial guarantees.

The slight delay while administrators work through the deal has not deterred fast-moving Todd, however, who already has two signings in the pipeline after discussions with a host of out-of-contract players.

The new Darlington boss was staying tight-lipped on the identities of the pair of mystery players, but it is an indication that next season’s plans are already at an advanced stage.

Todd, who leaves for a short break tomorrow, has also offered new terms to most of the members of last year’s squad yet to find a new club – but on reduced terms.

“Things are happening behind the scenes. Obviously I’m talking to players at the moment and no -one really wants to commit until other things are set in stone,” he said.

“But I have talked to two people who have agreed to come and join us so we’re getting there. I can’t say their names, it’s not fair on them and it’s not fair on us until it is confirmed.

“Even players under contract at Darlington at the moment, I have offered them terms but they are not as favourable as the terms from last season.