Pic: Tonbridge Angels FC
TONBRIDGE ANGELS boss Steve McKimm has started shaping his squad for next season after missing out on promotion to the National League South.
McKimm’s side finished fourth in the Ryman Premier but they were beaten by promotion winners East Thurrock United in the play-off semi-finals.
Anthony Riviere, Bradley Woods-Garness, Charlie Webster and Laurence Ball have all been released but the rest of the squad have signed up for next term.
The Angels boss says he expects “good news” in the near future surrounding new signings as the Kent club aim to return to Step 2.
McKimm said: “In many ways I would have liked to have kept Rivs around the place in some capacity, but unfortunately his work commitments meant that wasn’t possible. I’m sure that with his abilities he will soon find a club that logistically can fit his work patterns.
“In that regard, I believe the other three players I am releasing will also find good clubs quickly as they are all skilled and experienced at Ryman Premier level. All of them have been brilliant for me and have played a significant role in our success in reaching the play-offs and I thank them sincerely for their efforts.
“That said, we need to move on and improve further and therefore go for promotion next season and that has to mean developing the squad with some new players coming in.
“I’m pleased to say that the remainder of the squad have been offered and agreed terms for next season – I’m just waiting for Luke Allen to confirm. In terms of new signings I have been talking to various players already and expect to have good news on this front very soon.”
Goalkeeper coach Kevin Shrimpton is also leaving the club and McKimm added: “Kev has been a tremendous help to me and our goalkeepers during the two years he has been here. I wish him all the very best for the future.”
