Roma seeks a new keeper as Budtz departs

Jan Budtz has enjoyed four seasons with Gainsborough Trinity.

Dane Budtz, 37, has spent four seasons at Gainsborough over two spells but has opted for a move to Evo-Stik Premier Division side Buxton rather than signing a new deal, a decision driven by work and family commitments.

And while boss Roma lamented losing a quality goalkeeper, he sees it as a chance for others to stake a claim for the number one jersey.

He said: “Obviously it’s a shame as Jan is a good keeper and has done really well here over the last few years.

“But the move to Buxton fits in better around his work commitments with Doncaster Rovers as well as his family life, so I’ve no qualms about that as at this level of the game you have to be able to get that balance right.

“What it does now is give a great opportunity for someone to earn his place. Jonathan Hedge is here and is a very good goalkeeper who will want to fill the void, but I’ll want two keepers here so I’ll be aiming to bring someone else in who can compete with Jonathan for the position.”

Roma says he is happy with how pre-season preparations are going so far, with friendlies against Lincoln City and Grimsby Town the latest to have been arranged.

He said: “It’s my first pre-season as a manager and although I’ve never liked it as a player due to the hard work involved, I know how important it is to get everyone fit again, which is an area I’m always keen to work on.

“There are still some players I’m keen to bring in but we won’t have a situation where loads of trialists will be appearing. We need options all over the park and the majority of the squad sorted as soon as possible.”