Despite Colin Lee and the likes of Don Hutchison and Jamie Vincent agreeing deals of the same length, Merrington believed that accepting such an offer would not be beneficial to either club or the coach.
"The period of the contract sends out the wrong message." Merrington said.
"The players and fans know you could be out as quick as the last man.
"You need a short and long term planning programme. It shows a lack of foresight, vision and ambition."