Following the weekend’s game, manager Brad Cooke made his first alterations to his squad with the season quickly coming into view. Having said in interviews for West TV that he would be looking to keep a lean playing staff over the course of the campaign, some trialists were today released from the club, in addition to two well known and much admired players from previous years: Ryan Eiselt and Jimmy Woodward.

Ryan – often referred to by the West media team in internal messages as The Gatekeeper – was a key player last season, and was one of the few regular faces across the course of 2018/19 as West unsuccessfully battled relegation. He also added goals to his game as the final few fixtures loomed, and emerged from a difficult spell for the side overall in credit. Having joined in 2017 from Sandbach United, his desire and determination in defence endeared him to supporters, with his a demeanour off the field also being a credit to the club.

Jimmy has also been a part of the side since 2017, and his energetic presence on the pitch was always hugely appreciated – whether in midfield, or attack. Often coming off the bench, his dedication to the club – particularly during Steve Settle’s reign – was never in doubt, and following a spell out of the team he had come back and trained brilliantly throughout pre-season.

Both players leave with the best wishes of the club, and in the hope that both can find the first team football that they very richly deserve. There will always be a warm welcome for Ryan and Jimmy at Brookburn Road, whether they’re in the stands to watch in amongst the Ultras (which both have been known to do), or on the pitch for an opposing team. Thanks for everything.

News about the make-up of the final squad will be released towards the back end of pre-season, with moves potentially still to be made by the Men’s team management squad.