Eaves makes Athletic wait

Last updated : 28 April 2010 By The Chairman

Promising young striker Tom Eaves has been offered a two-year professional contract but has deferred his decision to put pen to paper. Negotiations are on-going with Eaves and his agent and it has been suggested that the 18-year-old may be holding out for a better deal or waiting to see if any other offers come in. He has made several cameo appearances from the subs bench and played a full half last Saturday in the 2-2 draw with Southend. It was his longest run in the first team and it occurred when he replaced the injured Pawel Abbott.

Newspaper rumours suggest that Newcastle United, West Ham and Wigan are all watching Eaves who has been a prolific poacher in both the youth team and in the reserve squad. Alan Hardy said, “We don’t anticipate him going. We believe he will stay here in order to continue his development with us.” If another club steps in with an offer the Latics will be entitled to compensation.