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Matlock Town have been rocked by the departure of club captain John Johnston, after he informed them he couldn’t commit for the new season.

Johnston was fans’ player of the year last season and was the Gladiators’ top scorer following the departure of Jonathon Margetts.
 
He joined the club in September 2022, but a change in his work commitments, has meant Johnston has opted to drop down a couple of leagues and play closer to home.

Johnston said: "Unfortunately since agreeing to sign work commitments for me and Charl have changed and with having two small kids I've been unable to train for the past few weeks. I've made the decision its not right to commit. I'll be unable to travel to training going forward. The club and me have tried everything possible to make it work but it's just not going to work and it wouldn't be right to half commit to something.

“For now I'll be going back and playing local football for a season and who knows what next year will bring, I wish you all nothing but the best of luck and hopefully I'll be back down to support at a game soon. To all involved at Matlock Town, fans, players, board and Chairman, I can't thank you enough for the last two seasons. Me and my family have loved every minute of it. Being made club captain will always be a privilege for me.”

Johnston scored a hat-trick in what turned out to be his final appearance for Matlock, the 5-2 win over Bradford (Park Avenue) on the last day of the season.

Manager Nicky Law said: "The deal with JJ was sorted but I then had a call from him while I was in the USA stating that due to personal changes within his family, he'd be unable to commit to us because of the travelling from his home in Stoke to training and to games. He has asked that his contract be terminated to enable him to drop down a level or two where the commitment wasn't the same as it is here at Matlock. We had long discussions and we have reluctantly agreed to his request. JJ's a tremendous player so it's a big blow to us but I'd like to thank JJ for his efforts in his time at Matlock and wish him and his family the best of luck going forward."

However, in better news, Matlock have confirmed that midfielder Harry Wood has agreed terms for the new season.

 

Last edited by Matchman (05/7/2024 4:12 PM)