MANSFIELD Town have handed David Holdsworth a four-year contract.

If that is not a sign of faith, I don't know what is.

But the sad thing is, I'm also guessing that the Stags had another motive for tying him to a long-term deal.

That is the simple knowledge that, if the rookie manager continues to have the same impact he has had so far at Field Mill, he might not be around for long.

From that point of view, fair play to Holdsworth himself because by committing to such a long-term deal, he has effectively made it harder for himself if a bigger club does come knocking.

If a League club does spot his potential and offer him a job, bosses will end up having to pay compensation for his services.

But that is only right.

What is most refreshing, however, is that Holdsworth is clearly willing to accept that situation, presumably because he realises that Mansfield have given him a chance in the first place.

A really nice outcome would be if Holdsworth became a league manager with Mansfield before departing for pastures new.