Stand up and be counted

Sean Gregan: all guns blazing

LATICS ROUND UP:

‘Players have let down the fans. They must come back with all guns blazing’ - Gregan

SEAN GREGAN wants Athletic's players to take a long, hard look in the mirror over the summer.

The 36-year-old centre-back, who played every minute of every game for the team this season — stretching his unbroken run of matches to an amazing 73 — has added the overall Chronicle Star Man award to his pile of accolades gained following a fine year's work.

But the Athletic captain, who is back for next term following an extension to his contract, admits that 2009-10 wasn't a campaign to remember.

In the aftermath of the dismissal of manager Dave Penney, Gregan placed the blame on the shoulders of those men who did not live up to expectations.

"I think a lot of players have let themselves down and let the club and the supporters down as well this season," Gregan said in his programme notes for the Charlton game at the weekend.

"The players should go away on holiday and reflect on their own performances, have a rest and come back next year with all guns blazing and put things right."

Gregan is set to undergo groin surgery before jetting off on holiday and promises to be back in training early in the summer to get in good shape for next season.

He hopes that the fans who have suffered this term will return for what will hopefully be better times.

"I would like to sincerely thank all the fans for your support, not just of the club but also the support for myself," Gregan added.

"We finally put a run of games together for you at the end to escape the fear of relegation.

"I understand your frustration. Come back next year and give us your support. I am sure we will give you a better season than was on offer this time around.

"If not, I will want to know why!

"Have a great summer, come back refreshed and get ready for a promotion push next year."

Chronicle Star Man award rankings:

Gregan 11, Stephens 6, Hazell 4, Abbott 3, Whitaker 3, Flahavan 3, Sheehan 2, Furman 2, Jacobson 2, Guy 2, Lee 2, Smalley 2, Taylor 1, Marrow 1, Parker 1, Worthington 1, Holdsworth 1, Colbeck 1, Millar 1.