Note that this page is from our Gresley Rovers archive. It may not be related to the new Gresley Rovers (formerly Gresley FC until 2020).
League clubs close on Gresley stars
Story courtesy of
Gresley Rovers are setting out their stall for a renewed promotion bid – but they may have to do it without key players.
Centre half Stuart Evans played his second game for Derby County Reserves at Scunthorpe last night is waiting a decision on whether the Rams want to take the 21-year-old former Wolves apprentice to the Baseball Ground.Meanwhile, midfielder Richard Wardle is being put under scrutiny by an unidentified Football League club.
Manager Frank Northwood said last night: “It’s a question of wait and see over Evans. Roy McFarland has said he will be in touch with me, and I’m still waiting to hear. But I understand he has done very well with Derby.”
Wardle, meanwhile, is another to attract attention from higher footballing spheres.
Said Northwood: “Manchester City were interested in Richard while he was at Tamworth, and now he is being looked at again, though we don’t know who by.
“Obviously, we don’t want to sell our best assets, but when League clubs are interested that’s different altogether. Richard has certainly done well for us, and the interest doesn’t surprise me.”
Meanwhile, Rovers hopes of making the jump into a higher league next season are continuing, with the Football Association this week issuing a clarifying statement.
Club Development Officer Frank McArdle said today: “After the disappointment of last season everyone at the club, including the supporters, knows the problems Gresley face in trying to achieve higher status.
“In an attempt to learn from last year’s experience the club has been in regular contact with the Football Association and Lancaster Gate and has now received official guidance to the effect that Gresley’s future lies through the Southern pyramid, and that the club’s future promotion hopes lie with the Beazer Homes League.
“The FA confirmed that there were no ‘geographical reason’ why Gresley should not progress into the Beazer League subject to meeting ground grading requirements.
“Due to success on the field, Gresley have this week requested the West Midlands League to put forward their application to the Beazer Homes League for entry into that league.
“Should this go forward then the next stage of Gresley’s development will unfold within a matter of days.”
McArdle confirmed that plans were under consideration for a string of ground improvements, saying that “all being well” these would begin “within the next few days.”
