Director of Football gives pre-season update
CAMBRIDGE United have made four signings this summer, ahead of the U's return to Sky Bet League 2 which kicks-off on Saturday 9th August.
United's new arrivals so far have been Johnny Hunt, Chris Dunn, Robbie Simpson and Luke Chadwick.
Speaking to United Player about the U's new additions, Jez said: “The new lads have fitted in brilliantly. I've watched training a couple of times and spoke to the staff and they've all been very happy with where we are.
“The players have come back in great shape. The memories of what happened at the end of the season act as a spur, as does the new level - the challenge of the football league."
Two of the U's longest serving players have departed the R Costings Abbey Stadium this summer, Kevin Roberts and Rory McAuley who both made over 120 appearances in black and amber, have joined FC Halifax Town and Dartford respectively.
Commenting on Roberts' departure, Jez said: “I'm really pleased he’s got himself fixed up with a good club like Halifax as he’s been a fantastic servant to the club over four years and I couldn't speak highly enough of the player. He’s been at this club through some bad times but he came to form and his attitude is absolutely tremendous.
“Whilst it’s always sad that players move on, that’s football and it was fitting that his last action in a Cambridge United shirt would be to pick up the play-off trophy at Wembley.”
Speaking about Rory McAuley, who joined the U's at 14, Jez said: “Another player who I can’t speak highly enough of a tremendous lad and literally has given blood for this club. Many people remember him for the winning goal at Luton, but I remember the game against Darlington beforehand when he got a smash on the head as usual, a big cut, and carried on!
"He'd put his head in front of a lorry for this club and that’s Rory all over, he was a good footballer and a fantastic person as well.
“Rory wasn’t offered a professional contract initially, but he kept persevering at CRC and eventually, after a change of manager, he made his début against Ebbsfleet and secured a professional contract. Since then a lot of youngsters, like Liam Hughes, who have been given time to develop at Cambridge United owe a big debt to Rory”
“I wish them both well, I know that they’ll have very successful careers elsewhere and I'd thank them for their commitment and what they've given to Cambridge United Football Club, because it’s been first class.”
The full interview with Jez George can be seen exclusively on United Player!