It’s been a busy few days at Fetcham Grove as Manager Hayden Bird continues to improve his squad and build for the future.
In addition to Jude Molloy, who made his debut as the left wing back this weekend, Alex Addai completed a move to Fetcham Grove on Monday afternoon. The winger is joined by the returning Will Hellestoe, who signs from neighbouring South Park.
As three players arrive, four players move in the opposite direction. Midfield players Archie Burnett and Lewis Pearch leave for pastures new, while Luke Phair and Adam Neale join Redhill and Camberley Town on loan. We wish the players every success in the future.
The Official Website on caught up with Manager Hayden Bird on Monday night, to discuss the changes to his squad.
“Yes, we’ve decided to make a few changes’” confirmed the Boss. “I’d prefer the squad to be more settled but the changes have been necessary,” he explained.
“With Michael Elechi suffering a long term injury, we needed to take the pressure off Louis Collins. Louis is a good lad but playing twice a week, every week, is demanding for any young player. We looked at three of four options and decided to pursue Jude, who made an excellent debut on Saturday.”
“An opportunity to sign a player of the quality of Alex Addai was too simply good to miss. Alex and I have a great relationship and I’m delighted he has joined us. For Leatherhead to sign a player who has the Football League experience of Alex, is a real coup for the Club. He is an explosive winger who will excite the fans. He also has a great personality who, like Kenny, all of the young players will learn from.”
“Will is a young player with a great attitude. There is no doubting his potential. Will will give the team a different dynamic and signs as a replacement to Lewis Pearch.”
Of the outgoings, the Boss was quick to praise the players who have moved on.
“Lewis and Archie are both good players with exceptional attitudes. Although we will miss them, we appreciate their desire to play more regularly. Any club at this level and many higher would benefit from signing these players. They leave us with our thanks very best wishes in their new clubs.”
“Luke and Adam have both agreed loan moves, to top up their match fitness. Both are part of our long term plans and will continue to train with us. I want both players to get the game time they need, which will help them come back fitter and stronger.”
“Both Alex and Will should be included at Ashford on Tuesday. Although the result went against us, I was delighted with the performance on Saturday at Basingstoke and am hoping to build on that performance tonight.”