CONCORD Rangers manager Adam Flanagan says he is most concerned with retaining his current squad as opposed to bringing in fresh blood as he already begins preparing for next season.

The club was bolstered by the news at the end of last week that captain James White, winger Sam Collins and defensive duo Jack Lampe and John Easterford have agreed to remain at the club next term.

However, they were dealt a blow yesterday when striker Lewis Taaffe departed for National League South rivals Hemel Hempstead Town, with further departures expected.

And while Flanagan is delighted with those who have committed their futures to the Beach Boys he says he wants others to follow in their wake, but says the morals of the club will not be put at risk.

I don’t feel like the season has ended if I am being honest,” he said. “I have been organising friendlies, speaking with the current squad and speaking with new players.

“The team lost several players during the off season last year so the aim will be to try and retain the majority this year and add a few new faces. We have to accept that every year we do well our better players will be targeted by the bigger clubs in our league and higher.

“We will do our best to try and retain players but we won’t jeopardise the infrastructure of the club in doing so or move away from the principles that have served the club well over the years. If players choose to move on then this opens the door for other players to come in and be a part of this great club.

“Lewis has performed well and we are sorry to see him leave. He stayed last year when others left and helped secure a top 10 finish and retain the Essex Senior Cup. If he had his shooting boots in the last few weeks of the season he could have well surpassed his best ever goal tally (15) which would have been a great achievement from a right winger. I wish him all the best at Hemel.”

Flanagan says he is excited at the prospects of the four who have agreed to stay, and says all can push on next season.

“I think the players that have committed are very loyal to the club and I look forward to working with them next year,” he said.

“Whitey (White) will also be in demand as he is up there as one of the best midfielders in the league. I still think he can develop his game and next year we will push him to score more goals as I feel he can reach double figures which is something he hasn’t achieved before.

“I only saw glimpses of Sam Collins last year as he recovered from a broken leg but his attitude, application and focus were extremely impressive. With a good pre-season under his belt Sam is one of the players I am most looking forward to see next season.

“Both Easterford and Lampe did well last year but need to work hard pre-season to regain fitness and get sharper. I am looking forward to seeing how they return.”