Coleman to leave Corsham (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

Coleman to leave Corsham

10:47am Friday 15th June 2007 in Football By Nick Mashiter

Midfielder Frank Coleman looks to be the next player to be leaving Corsham Town but Melksham boss Kelvin Highmore says claims he has signed for them are premature.

The midfielder took the unusual step of posting on current club Corsham Town's website, saying he had decided to move to the Conigre.

Highmore is looking forward to welcoming the attacking midfielder.

He said: "Frank is a player I have been after for a long time.

"We are losing Mike Perrott to Team Bath so it balances perfectly. He will bring more experience to the side.

"He has not put pen to paper yet though but I was very flattered to see what he put on the Corsham forum."

Coleman almost joined Melksham a year ago, but stayed at the Southbank after discussions with former manager Colin Bush, helping them lift the Toolstation League Premier Division title.

The 37-year-old explained his decision out of respect for Corsham.

He said: "Melksham is an up and coming club with some talented young players. It's a new challenge for me, which I am looking forward to. The strongest driver for me is the desire to play football for the town in which I live."

Coleman's imminent departure would mean five of the championship winning side have already left.

Captain Colin Towler, former assistant manager John Woods, goalkeeper Craig Chaplin and defender Dave Hopkins have retired.

Star midfielder Scott Lye looks set to leave and top scorer Toby Colbourne could yet be tempted away.

With a potential exodus, Coleman urged the existing players to stay and help new boss Graham Learmonth and his management team.

"I have heard a few negative comments recently about the club falling into decline, which is rubbish," he said.

"The loss of the management team and a clutch of experienced players must be looked upon as an opportunity rather than a setback.

"I have been in local football for a long time and know what Leo, Rosie (Paul Rose) and Trippy (Nigel Tripp) will bring to club.

"I have a huge amount of respect for all three of them and know that the club is in safe hands."