Robins boss hails departing duo

Kevin Wilson has hailed Gary Ricketts and Matt Richards for the part they’ve played in establishing Ilkeston FC as a force in the EVO-STIK League after revealing that the pair are set to leave the New Manor Ground.

The Robins manager is currently in talks with six players - Laurie Wilson, Joe Maguire, James Reid, Ryan Wilson, Kane Richards and Rob Duffy - who he hopes to keep but on Wednesday confirmed that it was the end of a brief but eventful era for Ricketts, pictured, and Richards who’ve both been key figures at the club since it was relaunched three seasons ago.

Wilson said: "I think it’s true to say that we wouldn’t have achieved what we have without the contributions of Ricketts and Richards and Ilkeston FC fans will always remember them fondly.

"Gary will be 39 next month and although he’s keen to play on for as long as possible, he understands that we as a club have taken the decision to go down a different route.

"He’s been a terrific influence on our young players and the supporters love him. We will miss not having him around the place but we’ve talked it through and he agrees that it’s time for both sides to move on."

Richards, a former Derby County, Wycombe Wanderers and Notts County midfielder, is one of the most talented players in the EVO-STIK League but has struggled with injury problems for much of his time at the club.

Wilson added: "Everyone knows how talented Matt is - he has that rare ability to do something in the course of a game that gets you off your seat - and I honestly believe he could still make an impact at Football League level if he applies himself. A number of clubs have asked me about him and nothing would please me more than to see him step up and do well."