Captain fantastic Shelley to stay at Horsham

The former Worthing United and East Preston midfielder was a big hit last season both on and off the field.

The combative central player has been heralded as one of the best in the Southern Combination League for a number of seasons.

He had a huge impact on the Hornets last campaign, skippering them to the league title at the first attempt.

Shelley’s future was in doubt after Horsham secured promotion to the Ryman League due to the increased travel commitments, but boss Dominic Di Paola is delighted to have kept his captain on board.

He said: “For Joe to commit is a massive boost for the club and me personally. He is such a wholehearted and honest player who never gives less than 100 per cent and that is why he has had half of Sussex on his case this summer with offers coming in left, right and centre.

“So for him to show loyalty like he has done is fantastic as I know he will have had some tough decisions to make over the last few weeks. For me, this also highlights the attraction of our supporters and this club.

“Joe is our captain and we will be a far better team with him leading us into this new league. He is a manager’s dream and we are so pleased he is staying.”

Horsham have now signed 11 of last season’s squad with news of new arrivals expected in the coming days.

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