Truro boss hits back at criticism from rivals (This is Cornwall - 11th July)

Source This is Cornwall

TRURO City boss Steve Massey has denied claims by rival managers he has been discourteous to them as he tries to assemble a squad good enough to compete in the Southern League’s premier division in the new season.

Massey and his management team have given a large number of players from Cornish clubs the chance to see if they can make it at a higher level.

But it is an approach that has upset managers such as Helston’s Sid Taylor and St Austell’s Dan Nancarrow, who have both complained that they had not been informed by Massey that he was interested in their players.

But the City boss said he had done nothing wrong.

He explained: “We have not tapped up anyone up. We have just given players the chance to come along and show us what they can do.

 

“I don’t want to fall out with anyone but I think they are being naive. They should be encouraging their players to give it a go with us and not having a go at me and the club.”

The Helston trio of Liam Eddy, Mark Goldsworthy and Charlie Young all featured in City’s opening friendly against Crewe on Friday, as did St Austell left-back Martin Giles.

But the Lillywhites defender has now turned his back on City and will stay at Poltair Park because he said he wants to play at a more local level.

It is a decision that has disappointed Massey. “I have wished him the best for the future but am disappointed at his decision,” he said.

“I think the travelling issue is a myth and just a weak excuse but has had huge pressure put on him.”

Another potential player departing is former Torquay United midfielder Saul Halpin who played against Crewe, but has now joined Bideford saying he did not think he would get enough game time for City.

City continue their preparations for the new season when they take on Plymouth Argyle XI at Treyew Road on Wednesday (7.45pm).