Jimmy: I want to keep Ryan
OUT-OF-CONTRACT MIDFIELD ACE PONDERS OPTIONS
JIMMY Floyd Hasselbaink says Burton Albion player of the year Ryan Edwards will be considering his options before deciding whether or not to stay with the Brewers for next season.
Burton boss Hasselbaink says he wants the 27-year-old Austrlian midfielder to sign a new contract and stay.
Edwards’ endless running in a variety of midfield roles has been instrumental in Burton’s escape from League One relegation this season and the manager is a big admirer.
“I started talks a while ago with his agent and with him,” said Hasselbaink.
“If I had been here a year ago, we would never have let his contract come to this stage.
“He has had in his mind, since he was a boy, that he wanted to play in Europe in his career.
“I am trying to persuade him that it’s not all that, playing in
Europe. England is much better.
“I’ve been there and done that, so I know, but he has to realise it himself.
“He knows we love him, we appreciate him. He knows we want him to stay. But it’s up to him. He wants to explore that opportunity first but he could knock back on my door.”
The Dutchman recalled the conversation he had with Edwards when he arrived as manager in January.
“He was brilliant from day one.
When we came in, we had to sit down and talk to him,” he said.
“He felt a little bit neglected. We had to make sure he knew that we thought he was a good player and part of the plans and we wanted him to stay here and play a really important role.
“He is somebody who understands the game.
“He brings an awful lot of energy to the team.
“Sometimes you don’t see him but when he is not there, you miss him significantly.”