Bromley have undergone a magical two years away from the National League having clinched promotion this season, but for one of their players – a return to the fifth tier is looking extremely likely in the coming weeks.
Andy Woodman’s side clinched promotion from the National League in May 2024, having beaten Solihull Moors on penalties and have taken to the EFL considerably well so far, finishing 11th before winning the league title this campaign.
Unsurprisingly, promotion to League One has brought about some difficult decisions for the club in terms of their out-of-contract individuals and for one player, it seems as though his next move is already creeping closer.
Bromley promotion hero set for National League return
Following their title success in League Two, Woodman has wasted little time in beginning preparations for next season, with the club already confirming their release list in which eight players have been let go, once their current contracts come to an end this summer.
Amongst those are some standout names including talisman Marcus Dinanga and former Arsenal right-back Carl Jenkinson, but arguably the toughest goodbye is to captain and promotion hero Byron Webster.
The 39-year-old featured just 11 times for Bromley this season and has already had his departure confirmed officially, however he doesn’t appear to be waiting too long to secure his next move.
As reported by journalist Pete O’Rourke, Bromley’s promotion-winning captain Byron Webster is expected to sign for National League new-boys Hornchurch on a free transfer.
Webster will be without a club this summer and has become the second player to be linked to the newly-promoted National League side, following an earlier report that fellow defender Tom Dallison is also close to signing for the club.
How big a signing is this for Hornchurch?
After clinching their surprise promotion against Torquay United in the National League South play-off final, Hornchurch now have the task of attempting to solidify themselves in the fifth tier next season.
Recent examples of Truro City and Oxford City have proven that the jump from sixth-tier to fifth-tier football isn’t easy, which is why a side such as Hornchurch must prepare for the campaign as quickly and effectively as possible.
Hornchurch have experienced attackers in the form of Dominic Poleon and Josh Rees, but defensively they aren’t necessarily experienced enough and this could cause them some issues next season, especially if sides around them are strong as well.
However, Webster has already achieved promotion out of the National League and has plenty of first-team experience throughout his days in the EFL as well as in non-League. Bringing through a player of his pedigree will significantly benefit Hornchurch.
Though he’s 39, Webster has already proven that he can stay fit and provide for his side in the National League. He’s also a natural leader, having taken the armband several times throughout his career.
Having an individual like Webster will significantly strengthen the defensive line whilst also allowing the club to have an ‘on-pitch’ manager, due to his past experiences.
