Grayson wants to keep Paynter

Billy Paynter is set to start the new season with Leeds United after manager Simon Grayson insisted he had no interest in selling the striker.Paynter’s future came under question last week amid suggestions of an imminent approach for him from Sheffield United, but Grayson confirmed today that the forward was part of his plans for the forthcoming Championship term.A transfer to Bramall Lane would reunite Paynter with Blades manager Danny Wilson, a coach who he flourished under for 18 months at Swindon Town, and his role at Leeds is unclear after a difficult first year in West Yorkshire.A shin injury delayed Paynter’s debut until October, and 23 first-team appearances yielded only one goal – at Preston North End on March 8.

The 26-year-old agreed a three-year deal upon joining United from the County Ground outfit last summer, however, and Grayson indicated that Paynter would be given a fresh chance to find his goalscoring form at Elland Road next season.

Grayson said: “I’ve had no enquiries for Billy.

“He had a stop-start season last year but I’m not looking to get rid of him because he’s a good player. When he did come into the team, he showed his quality.”