Draycott departs as free agent

Striker Ian Draycott is a free agent after leaving Ryman Premier Maidstone United.

The Premier Division's Stones announced on Wednesday that the 25-year-old, pictured, had left by 'mutual consent' and is now looking for a new club. His departure follows the arrival of fellow forward Zac Attwood from Margate on Tuesday.

Draycott joined the Stones from Lewes in May 2012 and went on to score 13 goals in 41 appearances. Manager Jay Saunders hailed his contribution at the Gallagher Stadium last season and confirmed he'd left in search of regular first team football.

Saunders said: "Draycs has been brilliant for us and scored some vital goals during last season’s promotion campaign. He’s a player who wants to play and, after discussing things with him, it was agreed that he will go in search of a club where he’ll get that opportunity. I’m sure supporters will join me in thanking Ian and wishing him every success in the future."

Attwood, 24, is expected to make his debut this weekend when the Stones travel to Hampton & Richmond Borough in the Ryman Premier. He switched after scoring three goals in five starts for Margate since joining the Thanet side this summer. Last season he was at Hastings United where he clocked up 14 goals in 48 appearances.

The striker, who was on the books of Charlton Athletic as a youngster, has also played for Histon and Welling.