DEFENDER Steve Pope has stunned his new Redditch United teammates by quitting the club before kicking a ball!
The former Crewe Alexandra and Kidderminster Harriers favourite has opted to return to Dr Martens Western Division rivals Bromsgrove Rovers.
The 28-year-old centre half had been voted player of the season at the Victoria Ground last season but chose to move on when managers Jon Ford and Gary Hackett were replaced with George Rooney.
But his departure will not have manager Rod Brown looking for a replacement.
The Reds boss admitted he was working with 22 players at the moment and that this would be trimmed to 18 before United start their league campaign on August 16.
One new arrival at the Valley Stadium is the experienced former Halesowen Town and Kidderminster Harriers goalkeeper Tim Clarke.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article