Tankard cheers Mansfield

Experienced defender Allen Tankard is set to stay on at newly-promoted Mansfield Town.

The 33-year-old full-back, who helped the Stags clinch their place in Division Two in his first season at Field Mill, has verbally agreed a new 12-month contract.

"It's good to have Allen on board,"manager Stuart Watkiss told the club's website.

"He showed what an important member of the squad he is in the final few games of last season.

"His experience will be invaluable to us next season in Division Two."

Tankard has started almost 500 League games in his career with Southampton, Wigan, Port Vale and Mansfield.