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Due to there being a large number of pro players now seeking clubs at lower levels there is obviously a knock on effect to clubs lower down in the leagues. At present many clubs in higher leagues than ourselves have the 'pick of the bunch' so to speak, and have vastly oversized squads filled with trialists whom like any ambitious individual want to play at the highest possible level.

We as a club have had numerous players not show for training as they feel they have had better offers from 'better' clubs. This is obviously disappointing for everyone at the club but I can assure you that we have worked tirelessly over the summer to strengthen the squad. Only over the last couple of days have we seen players realising that not everyone can play at Conference or Premier league levels.

The problem that this then presents is that financially we have a budget to work to and we simply cannot afford to meet some of these players' demands.

To reiterate what our Chairman, Mr Evans has said before me, our squad will be strengthened as and when players become available who can be both afforded by the club but more importantly improve on the current standard of players.

As a manager of the club I did not wish for Barry Woolley to leave Gresley Rovers. I felt that he was a very good player who would have made a vast difference to our side for next season. We had agreed a contract with Barry and were awaiting his signature on the dotted line when the offers came in from Ilkeston. Personally I feel that Barry was worth more to us than the fee that was eventually agreed, but with the current situation within football and the fact that I had promised to Barry, as I have to the rest of the squad, that if the chance to further a players career becomes available I cannot and will not stand in that players' way if they wish to leave. Obviously no player under contract will just be allowed to walk out of the door, the situation needs to be acceptable for Gresley but to keep a player at a club who is unhappy or who wishes to leave is not productive for the dressing room spirit.

I hope that this clears up any misunderstandings or uncertainties for you all. Let there be no doubt in anybody's mind that without you out there, this football club like many others would cease to exist.

Having only been involved in 'non-league' football for a relatively short period of time it is refreshing to see the genuine honest hard work that people give for Gresley Rovers. Keep up your support as it is massively appreciated by everyone, and as Mr Evans would say...... Live the Dream!!!!!

Regards Jon Newsome