ACCRINGTON Stanley assistant manager Jimmy Bell says he will feel let down if star duo Jimmy Ryan and Terry Gornell have decided to reject new deals without informing the club.

Bell and Stanley boss John Coleman have been away in Tenerife and Dubai respectively this week, and after a feeling of optimism 48 hours ago they have grown frustrated over reports that Ryan and Gornell could both be set to leave.

The Lancashire Telegraph understands Ryan has verbally agreed a deal to join Scunthorpe, while Gornell is reported to have rejected a new contract — leading to suggestions he may also be heading for the exit door.

The Reds are unable to increase contract offers but would be entitled to a fee for both because they are under 24.

Neither had been in contact with Stanley’s management duo before the stories surfaced and, while still unsure if either report is correct, Bell admits he will not be happy if they leave.

“We offered Terry a contract but we’ve had no contact with him since,” said Bell yesterday when told of the reports about Gornell.

“And we’ve tried to get hold of Jimmy but he’s on holiday, so he hasn’t rung back yet.

“They’re within their rights to do what they want because they are out of contract.

“It’s up to them but if they are going the least I would expect is for them to have the courtesy to speak to us. There’s a right way and a wrong way to do it. We’re not ogres.”

Stanley have missed out to Bury in the race to sign centre back Mark Hughes but remained optimistic this week of keeping the majority of their squad, including the likes of Charlie Barnett, Andy Procter, Dean Winnard, Sean Hessey and Ian Dunbavin.

The Reds are in talks about a pre-season friendly at Barrow, possibly on Saturday, July 23 – although the game and the date have yet to be confirmed.