Stefan Oakes Can Leave

29th May 2009

Yesterday, TFI reported the signing of Richard Butcher placed a question mark over the future of midfielder Stefan Oakes. Now, less than 24-hours later, it is official: Oakes can leave Lincoln City FC.

Imps' boss Peter Jackson told the Lincolnshire Echo that: "Stefan's still under contract for another year, but if someone comes in for him, I would seriously consider letting him go.

Jackson went on to add that: "At the moment he is part of the squad and there is nothing we can do."

Perhaps that last comment was unwise on the part of Jackson as it is hardly going to motivate Oakes!

Oakes joined Lincoln last summer on a free transfer from Wycombe Wanderers; he was immediately hailed as a star signing by Jackson. Unfortunately that failed to materialise despite being handed a first team place, as he came in for criticism from Lincoln's supporters over what they perceived to be a lack of effort by Oakes. However, there is no doubting Oakes' talent, especially his passing ability and influence at set-pieces.

Oakes lost his first team place due to injury and only won it back towards the end of the season, when he was depolyed as a left-winger. Alas, this just made matters worse as Oakes is definitely not a winger!

In Total, Oakes made twenty-three starts last season plus a further seven substitute appearances.

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