Football: Teams excited by Jersey tournament visit

Picture By Steve Sarre 17-11-18 Footes Lane Football action GFC V Cray Wanderers

The four-team tournament is set to take place at Springfield on 10-11 July in what is being seen as a timely boost to tourism.

Cray Wanderers, London’s oldest football club, are rebuilding after their manager left two months ago and took the squad with him.

Sam Wright, the club’s CEO, said that the cup would be great for bonding the new team.

They open up against FC United of Manchester, formed in 2005 by supporters of Manchester United opposed to the takeover of the Glazer family at Old Trafford, who they have never faced before.

‘In light of all the European Super League stuff, they probably are a club even more so right now,’ Wright said.

‘We’re really looking forward to it, I think it will be a great way to start the new season and a great way to come out of an awful 12 months with Covid.’

It’s unusual for the club to travel overseas pre-season – Wright joked that a long away trip was usually down to Essex.

‘We’re just really excited to come to Jersey, the tournament will be fantastic and will create a lot of media interest, especially as it’s on the weekend of the European Championship final – it will be a showcase for real grassroots, raw football.’

FC United manager Neil Reynolds is also thrilled at the prospect of a ‘Euro Away’.

‘Since joining FC United, I’ve heard all about the European tours and experiences. It’s special speaking to people about them but unfortunately I haven’t had the chance to revel in those moments yet, so I’m really excited that we’ve been invited to Jersey.

‘For a squad of players to be travelling abroad together for three nights to play in two really competitive games against strong opposition, it’s going to be a great opportunity and a big challenge,’ he said.

Jersey Bulls’ travel partner, Wayte Travel, are assisting visiting supporters with packages for the tournament.

– Advertisement –
– Advertisement –