GRIMSBY Town's bosses have some "tough decisions" to make on their squad's future as attentions quickly turn to next season and another promotion push.
The dust is beginning to settle on the Mariners' 2012/2013 campaign following Sunday's Conference play-off exit at the hands of Newport County.
After that desperate defeat in South Wales with another Wembley final beckoning, Town's co-managers are already weighing up their options.
With 11 players out of contract this summer – including Shaun Pearson, Craig Disley, Ian Miller and Derek Niven – the bosses have a busy time ahead.
Add to that the loss of the squad's five loanees, and the make-up of the Mariners line-up for next season is looking more than a little uncertain.
And Paul Hurst hinted that those key decisions will be made later this week.
"Because we were up there challenging, we weren't going to tell anyone what the situation is, so that's something we'll have to do this week," he said.
"We've got the Player of the Year Awards tomorrow – it's whether we decide to inform the players of our plans before that or delay it until after.
"We'll make some tough decisions and not everyone will agree with those, but that's what we're paid to do.
"We'll look to put a squad together capable of improving further again.
"We're not a million miles away, but even if we'd have got promoted, you look at the areas you can improve in."
Other Town players out of contract in May, June and July are Greg Fleming, Bradley Wood, Simon Ford, Frankie Artus, Louie Soares, Greg Pearson and Dayle Southwell.
And Hurst admits that the end of season contract negotiations are never an easy time for players and managers alike.
"Some of the players will be wondering where their future lies, and for me and Rob (Scott) that's our next step – to make those difficult choices," he added.
"It's not nice when you've worked with a group so closely, and we haven't got any players that I will take any pleasure from letting go. It won't be a nice thing to do because they have given their all.
"I don't think it will be a case of just 'topping up' the squad. It will be trying to get the best out of what's available to us.
"We've got a better basis to work from compared to last season.
"Over the season the players have done well, but we want ones who can do better and that's the decision we have to make."
