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The highly rated creative midfielder had recently returned to the area from London and Norton reacted quickly to sign him in a move that was met with delight from all involved with the club. However, the joy was short lived as Lyons has today agreed to move to Nuneaton and will complete his move in the coming days.

Norton explained: "Mickey called me on Tuesday to explain that Nuneaton had been in touch and had made him a very attractive offer. They were not aware he had signed for us and to be fair to Kevin Wilkin (Nuneaton Manager) he called me to discuss it.

"Financially we simply can't compete with what Nuneaton are offering and there is the additional attraction of a new stadium and the big fan base the club will have after their demise from the Conference North.

"An additional factor seemed pivotal for Mickey was the fact that Nuneaton is ideal for him to get to for training and Midweek games from his new place of work in Birmingham. Mickey has agonised over the decision for the last couple of days but in the end it was to good an offer for him to turn down. If things dont work out he would be welcomed at Gresley without doubt."

Norton added: "When I heard that Nuneaton were being demoted to our step of the pyramid I did fear they would be in trying to unsettle the likes of Jamie Hood, David Blenkinsopp or Jordan Nadat as they all have past Nuneaton connections. The good thing is that those key players are contracted to Gresley but unfortunately Mickey wasn't. When he signed for us I would have loved to have been able to get him on a contract but it wasn't possible.

"It's a huge blow to our plans and I must admit that I'm devastated about losing a player of Mickey's calibre but we have to take it on the chin and move on.

"Pre-season starts next week and we have got a great nucleolus of players at the club already with a number of exciting prospects we are hoping will accept of invitation to train with is and perhaps play in a friendly or two."