Selston go for experience as boss Karl Steed strengthens squad depth

Selston signed two more experienced players this week as boss Karl Steed tries to ensure they avoid another relegation battle in the United Counties Premier Division North.
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Centre back Lee Stevenson, who captained West Bridgford last season, will bring physical presence to the back line and fellow defender Grant Hackett has re-signed with the club after a year out the game, looking to build on his 238 appearances for the club.

“Both are similar sort of players – very committed and never leave anything in the changing rooms,” said Steed.

“They are both winners and both at an age where their experience alongside the younger lads in the side will help us in the long run on and off the pitch.

Selston FC manager Karl Steed - recruiting well.Selston FC manager Karl Steed - recruiting well.
Selston FC manager Karl Steed - recruiting well.

“Grant has played for me since he was eight or nine. He is 30 now. He had a season out last season but he is everything you want as a leader without wearing the captain's armband. He is brilliant in the changing room and with the young ones.

“We have now brought three or four new faces so far to give us a bit more strength in depth.

“Having key players missing last season did us as we didn't really have enough to fall back on.

“We have brought the right people in so far with the right mindset. They understand what we are about and, most importantly, know our limitations.

“They are localish lads so hopefully they will war the badge with pride and all in all it's quite positive.”

He added: “I am still hoping to get a couple more done before the season starts. There are a couple training who are still undecided.

“We finished last season with three wins in our last four games last season so I have told them to make that the start for this season and carry on from there.

“We need to pick up as many points as we can as quickly as we can as we don't want to be looking over our shoulders again. But we know how tough it's going to be and we will have to work hard for any wins.

“We now have six Notts sides in the league so we are looking forward to a few local derbies with a few good crows and more pennies in the pot for all our teams.”

A 25-yard screamer from Ollie Grimshaw gave them a 1-0 win at Ollerton Town last weekend and, after the midweek friendly with Loughborough Dynamo was cancelled due to the extreme hot weather, the final friendly is this Saturday away to Carlton Town before the big kick-off at Melton a week on Saturday.

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