Heybridge Swifts chief Keith Martin has shrugged aside the loss of Andy Tomlinson with the new Ryman League season just five days away.

Swifts will kick-off their premier division campaign against Billericay Town without the long-serving midfielder, who has decided to leave Scraley Road.

But Martin, whose side visit neighbours Tiptree United in their final pre-season friendly tonight, said: "I don't feel he has made a big push to get himself fit during pre-season and he has decided to look elsewhere.

"I've got no problem with Tommo. I have known him and seen him play several times over the years and I wish him all the best.

"We have cover in the midfield department, but if things don't work out for Andy and he fancies giving us another try then the door is open."

Elsewhere tonight, Halstead Town visit Witham Town with Rosemary Lane boss Andy Clark remaining philosophical at Ergan Artun's decision to leave his club for Heybridge.

Clark had pencilled in the ex-Colchester United youth player to play right wing-back for Halstead this season.

But Artun opted to move to Swifts just six weeks after signing for Halstead.

Clark said: "We did not want to stand in his way of progressing to a club at a higher level.

"It's disappointing, but we have other players like Matt Hearn who can play that role."

Published Tuesday August 10, 2004

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