It is no secret that Stags midfield has declined to accept the new terms offered him by the stags and plumbed to attempt to further his career at first Division Sunderland, but, Keith Curle explains the Black Cats were not the only club in the chase for the Retford born midfielder.

"We offered Liam a fantastic deal over a three year term which he declined on the grounds that he would like to pursue his career elsewhere. Leeds Utd had been in touch with me verbally showing an interest in Liam and making an offer in excess off £200,000 which I provisionally accepted on behalf of the club. They later put in a formal offer in writing which is line with the protocols of attaining players.

"Other Clubs were interested in getting Liam on their books as well these included Cardiff City, Crewe and Barnsley these were the clubs that we gave permission to speak to Liam, you must remember that there is a right way to do things and until July 1 Liam, for intents and purposes is still a Mansfield Town Player.

"Sunderland I understand phoned the chairman whilst he was on holiday making an offer which was verbally declined and the chairman was unable to decline in writing, but the they approached Liam and his representatives any way without the first obtaining the courteous permission of this football club. Making him a good offer which he accepted. I am pretty confident that when this case goes to arbitration Mansfield will be suitably reimbursed.

"That said I have always said that Liam and any of the other players can leave the club if that's what they want as long a they are sure that it is the best move for them and in the best interest of Mansfield Town FC, so I wish Liam all the best with his career and hope that he appreciates all the hard work that has been put in over the years to enable him to find himself in a position to player on the bigger stage."

Discussing the potential compensation that the black Cats will have to pay for acquiring Liam Curle is confident that some of the funds will go some way to bringing fresh blood into the Field Mill changing Room:

"I have an idea of how much we should be looking at and that the funds will be made available to bring in other players I feel that we will be able to bring qualities to this football team to help drive us forward. I would stress that just because we are not announcing numerous players coming in every day that nothing is been done. I have my list of targets and contact is been made – we will be ready for the beginning of the season and I urge the supporters not to let frustration turn into a negative, this could be the best year at this football club EVER!" he said.