Hero’s send off
STOCKPORT County manager Jim Gannon admits losing Gary Stopforth will be a blow when he is set to depart the club in January.
Stopforth has put in several impressive performances for the Hatters so far this season, but will leave for a new opportunity in Australia in the New Year.
Gannon wishes that the midfielder was staying at the club, but is focusing on getting as much out of him as he can in the time being.
“I think he’s here until January 7 and we know he will be a loss but it’s a life changing opportunity for him over there,” he said.
“We knew the situation when he came in and we just wanted this infectious character and he’s given us that.
“We’re not thinking too much about January when we lose him. We’ll give him a good send-off but at the moment we’ll use him all we can.
“I always tell young players that the greatest attribute you can have is enthusiasm, and he’s got that in abundance.”
Stopforth put in a good performance for Stockport during their 2-0 FA Cup win over Bishop Auckland on Saturday, and Gannon was pleased with what he saw.
“Gary gives us great energy in midfield and I thought that energy was outstanding, especially when you compare it to a few others who played,” he said.
“He was a doubt leading up to the game as he had to miss work on Thursday through illness, but thankfully he managed to play.”