Barnet boss not planning to replace Joe Devera
9:10am Thursday 16th June 2011 in Where I Live By Simon Mail
Barnet manager Lawrie Sanchez does not feel he needs to bring in a replacement for Joe Devera.
The Bees' player of the season has rejected a new contract offer and agreed a move to League Two rivals Swindon Town.
Sanchez offered a contract to the 24-year-old this summer but he has decided to join Paulo Di Canio's side.
The 24-year-old central defender or right back, who was also voted the most improved player by members of Barnet FC Supporters Association, made 190 starts for the Bees and ten substitute appearances.
Sanchez does not believe he needs to replace the defender because he has suitable cover in the form of Darren Dennehy and Anwar Uddin who were both unavailable during certain points of last season.
He added: “Although it’s disappointing to lose Joe we feel we have adequate cover at centre half. Darren and Anwar have been out with injuries so in that respect we are in decent shape in that position. It is a strong area for us and we feel we have enough cover.”
Sanchez, who hopes to add to the squad within the next couple of weeks, added: “It’s obviously disappointing to lose our captain and player of the year but he was a free agent. We hoped he would stay but when you are a free agent there are clubs that have a bigger budget than Barnet like Swindon. He’s been a good servant for the club and we wish him well.”
Meanwhile, ticket sales have started for Lee Harrison’s testimonial against a Tottenham Hotspur XI on Saturday, July 23.
Tickets will cost £16 for a seat and £11 to stand. There will also be a short match featuring former Barnet and Spurs players including Linvoy Primus.
Harrison made 258 appearances for the Bees and was first-team coach alongside Ian Hendon. He is currently the assistant manager of Newport County.
