Nathan Ellington will have to prove his fitness in pre-season

Nathan Ellington will not be offered a new contract by the club at the moment but he will get the opportunity to prove his fitness in  pre-season if he wishes. Ellington is a free agent, but Steve Davis says if he can reach the expect level of fitness then he could yet earn himself a new deal this summer.

The experienced striker, 31, spent the last month of the season with us after earning himself a short-term deal at the beginning of March.

The former Wigan, Watford and Derby striker made eight appearances for the club, mainly as a substitute, but failed to score. Ellington almost scored with his first touch for the club though, with his close range header hitting the crossbar against Shrewsbury Town.

Ellington also spent time on loan with Ipswich and Scunthorpe United last season and overall made 16 appearances.

Steve said: "We haven't retained Nathan as such because we wanted to be fair with him and allow him to keep his options open. He is a free agent and we didn't want to hold him to ransom.

"I wouldn't rule having him back but we have to be fitter. I knew he was playing catch-up when I took him in. He is a proven goalscorer and it is not about his ability, if he can get learner and fitter then he could be an option again.

"He had the desired impact around the place. He was an impact player in the games, but he was brilliant to have around and great with the other lads. I am sure he enjoyed his time here and we enjoyed having him."