First signings to leave as Romans begin preparing

Jerry Gill has started his rebuilding for the 2021/22 season by releasing defenders Jason Pope and Freddie Grant.

It’s a case of first in first out – both were signed on the same day last August from Hereford and Maidenhead United respectively as City’s first summer signings – but they are now free to look for other clubs.

Left-back Grant, nephew of wellknown former manager Martin Allen, had his season hampered by a spell in isolation having been in contact with someone suffering from COVID-19, and also saw a back injury restrict him to 13 appearances.

His only goal was in the 1-1 Boxing Day draw at Chippenham Town and made him the only defender to net for Bath City in 2020, as well as being the club’s 100th different goalscorer in National League South.

Both Grant and Pope made their debuts in the FA Cup 2nd Qualifying Round win over Winchester City in October, but Pope was subsequently dropped before regaining his place for the next round at Slough, moving from centre-back to holding midfield.

Following a disappointing 2-1 defeat at home to Hemel Hempstead in November, Pope spent the next ten matches on the bench, making three outings.

He was recalled for the final match before the season was curtailed, arguably producing his best performance in a 2-1 win over Havant & Waterlooville.

He finished with 11 appearances and no goals.

Pope’s previous clubs include Weston-super-mare and Exeter City, appearing for the Grecians’ academy side alongside Aston Villa’s England international Ollie Watkins.

The National League have confirmed that the North and South divisions will recommence on Saturday, August 14 for the 2021/22 campaign.

Bath City’s remaining players have been provided with a personalised training programme to work on over the extended close season in preparation for their tenth consecutive season in Step 2.