Grantham Town joint managers Jimmy Albans and Wayne Hallcro have admitted that losing Lee Potts just over a week before pre-season training starts was a blow – but one they can take in their stride.
The popular winger re-joined the club shortly after the managerial pair returned last season and was a big part of the success the club enjoyed in the second half of the campaign.
Hallcro said they had received a text from Potts indicating he would no longer be available: “Two weeks ago, we had agreed terms with Pottsy. He has a new job and was honest enough to tell us that he could not commit to the degree that we want for next season.
“We have tried to get him to stay, but in the end couldn’t. As far as we are aware, there is no other club involved, just the work commitment.”
Potts was originally signed for Grantham by the pair as a striker, but played mainly as wing back or winger in his 188 appearances for the club.
He weighed in with 27 goals during his career at The Meres, including netting the last goal of the 2013-14 campaign at Nantwich Town.
Hallcro said they had already stepped up their search for left sided players.
He said: “It’s a big blow to our preparations. Pottsy allowed us to play in different ways.
“As a squad, we have players we can move into those positions.
“It is a big hole to fill, but I am confident we will find the right player whether it takes one week or six.
“ We have a number of irons in the fire at the moment.”