Season starts “now” for Ilkeston FC

Kevin Wilson insisted today that he doesn’t want to think too deeply about the appetising Derbyshire derby in the FA Cup against Matlock or Belper, which will take place at the New Manor Ground on Saturday September 22.

The Ilkeston FC boss wants the focus of everyone - especially the players - to be placed firmly on Saturday’s home game against Witton Albion and then next Tuesday’s trip to Frickley Athletic.

He said: “The performance of the youngsters against Rushall - even though we lost - gave everyone a lift and that’s been carried through with the win at Coalville.

“Hopefully the corner has turned after our disappointing start and as far as I’m concerned, our season really gets underway this Saturday against Witton Albion. I want the ‘real’ Ilkeston FC to turn up... let’s start doing ourselves justice.”

Added the manager: “The FA Cup draw is certainly one to look forward to but that’s two weeks away and I don’t want any distractions before that.”

One player who won’t be involved against the winners of the Matlock-Belper replay is summer signing Jamie Clarke (pictured), who is set to leave the club.

The experienced striker missed much of the pre-season work while he was on honeymoon, then suffered an injury and has struggled to make the expected impact.

Said Wilson: “I liked what I saw of Jamie last year and was delighted when he agreed to join us but for whatever reason, it hasn’t worked out. He wants to be playing and I cannot guarantee him a starting place so we’ve chatted it through and agreed that the best way forward is to part company.

“I didn’t put him on the bench at Coalville on Saturday because I didn’t want to scupper his chances of playing for another club in the FA Cup. I know he has goals in him and hopefully he will soon find a new club and start scoring again.”