There are a lot of rumours flying around at the moment and i would like to take this opportunity to quash any stories that our supporters may have read recently in the local press.

There is no crisis at the club or exodus as some may have you believe. As I have said there are plenty of rumours flying around and a statement from Andy Swallow will follow shortly that should hopefully give a clearer understanding of the plans for the future of Grays Athletic FC.

As we draw towards the end of the season it is custom to start looking at the current squad and make decisions as to who we feel may or may not be required for next seasons campaign. Unfortunately this does mean that some players will be released. Its never an easy thing to do but we need to start making those plans now so we are in a good position in pre-season.

We had three players out injured for Saturday's match against Leiston and it was the perfect opportunity to blood some new young players, I personally do not see giving young players an opportunity to play a full 90 minutes as a sign of an exodus or a crisis, it is quite normal at this stage in the season for many non league clubs to look at their playing squad and shed a few players they feel may not be required for the next season. Its not uncommon and is not unique to Grays Athletic.

I would like to place on record my sincere thanks and gratitude to our departing chairman of ten years Keith Burns. Contrary to the exodus headline in the press recently , Keith has made the decision to step down from the role due to an increase in other commitments and didn't feel that he could give his full commitment in the role.

There is a lot of work going on behind the scenes at the moment and an announcement will be made soon to quash any further rumours that you may hear. As always any statement will be posted on the clubs website and should as always been seen as the official line of the club.

We have a 12 day break now from Ryman League and our next match is on the Thursday 24th March away to Bognor. We look forward to seeing you at the match and we would once again like to thank you all for your continued support of this great club.

Many thanks

Joel Nathan
Grays Athletic CEO