BILLERICAY Town boss Craig Edwards says he is "disappointed" that Rob Swaine has gone back on his word about staying next season after watching the player sign for Hemel Hempstead Town.
However, Edwards, who says Swaine will be missed, revealed there has been huge interest ahead of pre-season training and that he hopes to continue talks with a number of new players.
"Rob gave me his word he was staying, but money talks," the boss said.
"His wages were virtually doubled at Hemel Hempstead and it's disappointing when people give you their word they want to stay and then go.
"He's been excellent for us, and he will be a big loss for us. I'm afraid, these days, money talks.
"He's gone for a better offer and we wish him good luck.
"But we've invited more than 30 players in for pre-season training and we've had a great response in terms of recruitment, including three goalkeepers.
"Nothing has been officially agreed with any new players yet, but what I would say is that the response from players we want to get in has been fantastic."
And Edwards revealed that three more players have left the squad, including striker Jay May.
"Jay has signed for Bromley, we've released Chris Wild, and Alex Osborn has gone back to Dagenham & Redbridge," he said. "Chris had three good years with us, and sometimes it's just a case of changing it up and bringing in some new faces.
"Alex is looking to go out on loan again to a Conference South side so he won't be with us.
"I was looking to keep between eight and 12 of last year's squad. That's taken it down to eight but there are players staying who we're very happy with.
"I think we'll have more energy with the players we add. I'd like to think on the back of a side getting relegated, we'll have a very, very hungry side, perhaps a little bit more youthful."
And with next season's budget set to be reviewed by the club, Edwards hopes to have a couple of sponsors helping the club's finances.
He said: "We don't know the budget yet. Things have been difficult for the club and we've got bills to pay, but we're talking to a couple of prospective sponsors.
"But it's looking good, and it will be a revamped squad – some of it through choice, some of it through players deciding their futures lie elsewhere.
"That happens in non-league football and when we played Conference South clubs last season, the bulk of their squads were contracted until the end of next season."