It appears watching from the sidelines just wasn't the same for Lee Turner, who's decided to re-sign after all. Whilst he's not expected to play every match, his experience and versatility (and hopefully a few goals!) is sure to benefit the team whenever he does.
A big Garforth welcome goes to attacking midfielder Jed Zanos. The Australian has impressed in pre-season, and added an assist to his name on Tuesday for fellow new arrival Hass Gorji. He's previously played at Frickley Athletic, Pontefract FC and York Futsal.
Alongside Turner, another familiar face remaining in LS25 is Kippax-based centre-back Sam Denton. Sam's experience, aerial ability and reading of the game has made him a key part of what was largely a solid Town defence last season. Strong-running centre-forward Alex Burton has also re-signed, and if Tuesday night's second half is anything to go by, a partnership with James Burgess could be an exciting one.
Goalkeeper Aaron Burn, brought in last October to replace the suspended Toby Wells, has put in some composed displays between the sticks, and will look to keep him on his toes once he returns. Young centre-back Joe Smith, who made a handful of appearances last season also re-signs. Players whose chances to make their mark last season were sadly hampered by Covid lockdowns are midfielder/striker Ryan Foster and centre-back Kevin Terhaerdt who both joined in October last season and sign for us again. Striker Dramane Coulibaly, who's early promise last season was dashed by injury, also remains; hopefully 2021-22 sees a change in luck for the Italian.
A final player confirmed to have left is holding midfielder Connor Mayall. He made a handful of appearances last season and in 2019-20, and for any competitors of a future GTFC-themed pub quiz, can be named as being the scorer of our final goal before the pandemic set in. Best wishes for the future Connor!
The Team page will be updated over the next couple of days.
Up the Miners!