Chairman George Reynolds insists the future of Darlington's out-of-contract stars rests with caretaker boss Mick Tait.

The Quakers chief revealed he will distance himself from any key decisions, maintaining Tait will be the best judge as to who goes and who remains with the club in the summer.

Quakers have a number of key players whose current deals are up for renewal at the end of the season including top-scorer Barry Conlon and goalkeeper Andy Collett.

"It's up to the manager who picks the team and who he wants to sign," said Reynolds. "Managers must be allowed to manage.

"I'm happy with the players we have, but it's up to the manager on who he decides he wants to keep.

"I could say I wanted a player, but what would be the point if Mick didn't want him? He is the manager and that's what he's paid for.

"If I decide what to do we don't need a manager do we?"

Reynolds, meanwhile, has given the clearest hint yet that Tait will be at the helm next season.

He took charge of team affairs following Tommy Taylor's departure in October and Reynolds appears to be more than happy with Tait's contribution.

"Mick's doing a wonderful job for us," said Reynolds. "We've got to be fair and we've got to give the lad a chance.

"The team was struggling when he took over, but he's turned things around really well since October.

"It's not going to happen overnight, but I have every faith in him."

And despite calls for a high-profile manager, Reynolds believes such appointments can never guarantee success.

He said: "People say go for a big name, but you only have to look at what happened to Tony Cottee at Barnet.

"He took them down to the Conference so these big names are not always the answer."

Reynolds was also quick to play down a recent appearance at Feethams from former Middlesbrough boss Colin Todd, who watched from the stands during the Easter Monday win over Hull.

"He just came to see the game that's all," said Reynolds.

"People in football do come and watch other games. It's easy to draw conclusions, but just he was there to watch the game."

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