BILLERICAY: One in, two out at New Lodge

BILLERICAY Town fans should know the basic make-up of the club's first team squad within the next 10 days according to new manager Brian Statham.

Having captured striker James Baker from Blue Square South side Welling United last week, Statham admitted on Tuesday, that he was working hard to bring in other new players he wants.

"It's difficult to be specific but I'm confident that within the next 10 days we should have on board more or less those we want," Statham said.

One Town player who won't be part of those plans is midfielder Matt Game who has left the club saying he wants to play at a higher level and is believed to be talking to Blue Square South side Braintree Town.

"I had talked to Matt and explained that I wanted very much for him to be part of my first team for the coming season but he's adamant he wants to move for footballing and not financial reasons," explained Statham. "Obviously he didn't want to stay for which ever reasons and I'm really disappointed.

"I even asked him what we could do to persuade him but that was no good either."

Game walking out of New Lodge will cause animosity amongst fans and Statham says it's understandably upset club chairman Steve Kent.

The midfielder was out all of last season with a broken leg but the club stood by him, paying his wages and providing practical help towards his long recovery.

He managed a handful of games at the end of the season, mainly coming on as substitute, in his bid to return to full match fitness.

"In view of all that it is disappointing he has left in this way but these things happen in today's world and I only want players to stay with this club who want to play for me and the team," added Statham.

Another player who has left is Dee Okojie, who Statham had wanted to be part of his squad.

Baker, 22, a 6ft 2ins striker, ended the season at Welling having briefly played for Eastleigh plus an even briefer spell at Chelmsford City over the Christmas period.

He had previously spent two successful seasons at Braintree Town and Statham believes that with a full pre-season and matches to get himself fully fit he will be a big asset to the side.

"He's only 22 years old but has plenty of experience at one level higher and I know what he can do having seen him play many times," Statham said.

"He has a presence about him on the field, he's shown he can score goals and will give more competition for places up front."

Two first teamers who have re-signed for the club are forward Dave Wareham and midfielder Paul Shave.

"I had Dave with me at Heybridge Swifts and let him go so I know what he can do, although perhaps like other players here last season he under-performed to a degree.

"I'm sure with the right approach and help he will be a big asset this coming season.

"Paul is a fans' favourite and I know he wants to always be a winner, is enthusiastic and versatile enough and can still improve his game."