Bucks aim to retain ace Meredith

Boss Rob Smith has set his sights on keeping full-back James Meredith at AFC Telford United for the rest of the season - and maybe even beyond.

The 20-year-old Aussie has agreed an extension to his loan from Shrewsbury that will keep him at the New Bucks Head until January 13.

That will be his third month with Telford, so Smith must now agree a deal for the rest of the season if he is to keep him at the club beyond that point.

And the Bucks chief today insisted he would do everything within his power to retain a player who he believes has been key to the club's fantastic recent run.

"In principle, we are okay with Shrewsbury to extend it for the rest of the season, but we would still have to agree it with Mezza (Meredith)," said Smith.

"I know he's enjoying it here so I'm hopeful, but it may be he wants to keep his options open.

"There's a chance for him to win something here this season and I know that's a factor for him - I'm determined and will do everything I can to keep him.

"If there was nothing for him at Shrewsbury at the end of the season then I could guarantee we'd want to take him on here, but I think he wants full-time football and I'm sure he won't be short of options.

"He's done ever so well for us and it's no coincidence that our form has picked up since we signed him and Danny Carey-Bertram."

Meanwhile, midfielder Emeka Nwadike has seen his loan at Telford's Blue Square North rivals Hinckley extended for a second month. Nwadike has slipped behind Carl Rodgers and Jamie Vermiglio in the pecking order, but could now be recalled at 24 hours' notice if required.

l The Bucks have been paired at home to Kettering in the northern area semi-finals of the Setanta Shield. The tie will be played on Tuesday, January 13.

The other game in the northern section will see Barrow or York entertain either Wrexham or Southport.