I’ve known James Morrish for many years and I’m delighted he’s staying with us next season, says Whitstable Town boss Lloyd Blackman

WHITSTABLE TOWN manager Lloyd Blackman continues building his squad ahead of his first season in charge at The Belmont.

The Oysters completed their Bostik South East Division campaign under Scott Porter in twelfth-place, having banked 43 points from their 36 league outings.

Blackman told www.whitstabletownfc.co.uk that he has released centre-half Rob Gilman, 35, and midfield general Nick Treadwell.

“Decisions like this aren’t taken lightly,” said Blackman.

“Rob has a fair distance to travel and after an open and honest chat we felt it best to go our separate ways as he seeks a club nearer home.

“Nick is another smashing lad but unfortunately his opportunities would’ve been limited this season and knowing him well like I do, he would want to be playing regularly and it’s something I cannot offer.

“Rob and Treads will always be welcome back at the Belmont and I wish them all the very best in the future.”

Blackman revealed that he failed to keep striker Stephen Smith at the club as he lost out on Ramsgate’s offer.

“Steve and myself had agreed terms for next season but he then received an offer that he absolutely could not refuse.  Like the other boys, I wish him all the very best,” added Blackman.

Whitstable Town have tied down central midfielder and skipper James Morrish and has signed former Cray Wanderers centre-half Marcus Evans, who could not get in front of Mitchell Nelson or Jay Leader in last season’s title-winning side.

“I’ve known James for many years and I’m delighted he’s staying with us next season.  His experience is invaluable and everyone in the changing room looks up to him,” said Blackman.

“I’m also delighted to announce that Marcus Evans has agreed to sign from league champions Cray Wanderers.

“I’ve been following the career of Marcus for the last 18 months and once I spoke to him it was clear we both had identical intensions.

“He’s a cultured central defender at a fantastic age, whose drive to improve is second to none.”

Visit Whitstable Town’s website: www.whitstabletownfc.co.uk