Dan silver lining
COUNTY boss Jim Gannon says the departure of Danny Lloyd should be “an inspiration” for other players who want to progress into professional football.
The County chief reckons Lloyd’s progress will inspire players with similar ambitions, whether they’re already within the club or considering joining.
Gannon believes Danny’s departure to Peterborough United has a massive ‘silver lining’ in terms of recruiting new talent. He said: “I trust the missing attacking pieces of our current team will be quickly filled by similar ambitious, goal hungry players like Danny.
“Although it is naturally disappointing for all to lose Danny, that disappointment is quickly dissipated by such a great move for the lad.
“Danny left AFC Fylde in some ways disillusioned with the game, and coming to Edgeley Park has restored both his enjoyment of the game and zest to progress as a player.
“Danny is going to a great club that have great football people in charge, and a record for giving non-league players a chance and platform for further success. .”
Danny admitted he was close to quitting the game twelve months ago: “I’d fallen out of love with football,” said Danny. “I was thinking of packing it all in, but Jim and Alan Lord both spoke to me last summer and rebuilt my confidence – 12 months later, I’m in the Football League. What a difference a year makes. Jim and the lads made me believe in myself again, and it’s been a really emotional journey for me.”
Lloyd has signed a three-year deal at Peterborough after scoring 29 goals for the Hatters this season.
He told County’s official website: “I know I wouldn’t be where I am today without Stockport County and Jim Gannon.
“Jim and the club have given me the platform to become a professional footballer, something I dreamt about when I was a kid – without the gaffer I wouldn’t be in this position.
“I am a full-time footballer, and it hasn’t quite sunk in yet that I won’t be working in an office any more!”
‘I trust the missing attacking pieces of our team will be quickly filled’