Waddock wary of approaches for Pompey free agents

As yesterday revealed in The News, Oxford United have tabled a deal for Ryan Taylor, who is out of contract this summer.

Former boss Andy Awford wanted to keep the striker at Fratton Park, yet all potential renewals are on hold until the season’s end.

The on-going situation throws up the possibility the 10-goal striker could be tempted away from the Blues.

And Waddock recognises the danger.

He said: ‘Ryan has done very well. He has added goals to his game and that is why other managers will pay attention.

‘He is probably in a strong position.

‘You could lose players, of course you can, but that is a decision for the club.

‘I have been put in charge to look after the team for the remaining fixtures, contracts are out of my hands.

‘It is difficult trying to plan and prepare with the timing of losing Awfs.

‘But we have a head of recruitment so the targets the club have identified will continue to be worked towards.

‘But you also have to look after those players out of contract and start discussions with them sooner rather than later.’

Taylor will miss tomorrow’s visit of Bury through a groin injury.

Regardless, he is on Oxford’s radar.

U’s boss Michael Appleton said: ‘He is a good player and obviously out of contract, so I’m sure he’s going to be one of the players who are going to be linked to us.

‘I’ve gone on record as saying I want four strikers for next year.

‘At the minute we’ve got three and one on loan, so Ryan will be one of many we will get linked to.

‘He’s a talent and is a good age.’