Two Out, Two In
Manager Carl Abbott has confirmed today that his
playing squad has seen two arrivals and two departures.
Leaving the club are midfielder Neil MacKenzie and right back Jamie Newton. During their spells at the club, Neil made thirteen appearances and Jamie nine after arriving in the summer, but both are now free to seek football elsewhere.
Abbo said: ‘I would like to thank Neil and Jamie for their efforts while with the club, and wish them both all the very best for the future.
‘Things remain under review following Saturday’s game and further movement within the squad could be expected over the course of the next seven days.
‘It is important to note that I am not holding Neil and Jamie up as the fall guys for Saturday’s debacle, many players on display have much to answer for.
‘At this point all options are open to see that, moving forward, we are correctly prepared to go to battle in games where needs be.
‘I accept that we will from time to time play poorly, I accept that from time to time we will lose football matches. But I will never accept a lack of heart, passion, courage, and dedication, which does not in any way, shape or form represent me, Paul, or indeed the fantastic supporters of this proud football club.’
Coming into the squad are experienced midfielders
Marcus Jackson, from Evesham United, and the returning JJ Melligan.
After captaining the club last season, JJ needs no introduction to the AFC faithful. The Irishman was influential in the club’s lengthy unbeaten run at the end of last season, and returns to St John’s Park looking to build on that success.
Another man with vast experience of the game, Jackson has made over 300 appearances on the non-league circuit having spent time with the likes of Bromsgrove Rovers, Leamington and Halesowen Town.
He is capable of playing anywhere on the right hand side or in the centre of midfield, with Abbo saying that he will add ‘bite and leadership’ to the group.
The former Wolves Casuals boss also confirmed that Nathaniel Caines and Jack Jepson are no longer part of the squad, saying: ‘I am not pursuing things with Nat, and Jack has moved on to Heather to play games.’
