Since the appointment of the club’s new managers (Wilfred Thomas, Halil Hassan and Glen Kendall), there have been significant developments in preparation for the new season.

Vincent McBean, Chief Executive, commented: ” Since the new football and coaching team came on board, we have made some big changes toward the direction and vision for Clapton Football Club.”

“We are looking to play a more expansive and fast paced style of football and training has been at a much higher level. Indeed, the selection process is likely to be more stringent, with players who not only want to play football but also wanting to develop and be a part of the club going forward, being given higher consideration.”

“This Saturday (6 July), we play our first pre-season friendly away to May & Baker FC, who play in the First Division South of the Thurlow Nunn League. This will be followed by a series of other matches throughout July.”

Alongside the football, the management team have been looking at the structure and how best it needs to work going forward. Key to this was to maintain a three manager system.

Regretably, one of the managers, Halil Hassan, did not share that vision and has now left the club.

Commenting, Vince said: “Although no formal notification was given about his decision to leave, other than what has been communicated indirectly via social media, in the short time with the club, Halil made a valuable contribution. We wish him all the best”.