GRAYS Athletic legend Danny Sambridge, who has played for the Blues more than 200 times, has returned to the club - a year after stepping down.

The iconic goalkeeper's last appearance was in April 2025.

After his return was announced by the club's new management team of Mitch Hahn, Ashley Miller and Lewis Clark Sambridge said: "Saying goodbye to the club was incredibly difficult, so when the opportunity came to return, it was a very easy decision to make. When Mitch reached out to ask if I'd be interested in coming back for next season, there was only one answer.

"I know Mitch, Ash and Clarky really well, and I fully believe in what they are building at the club and the direction they want to take it. I've missed competing massively, and the chance to be part of something ambitious at a club that means so much to me is an opportunity I'm hugely grateful for.

"I had the chance to be around the group towards the end of last season and attended the final home game against Lowestoft. Seeing the community come together in the way it did made me incredibly proud of the club and excited about what can be achieved here.

"If we can build on that level of support this season, alongside the hard work being put in by the management team and everyone behind the scenes, I'm confident we're in for an exciting journey together.

A club statement said: "We are delighted that Danny has agreed to join Grays Ath on this next stage of our development, as we plan for an exciting future for the club."

Meanwhile a number of players from last season have been retained, including Macauley Joynes, Tyler Brampton, Guy Norton and Sam Wade with Jordan Clark announced as the new club captain.

A new signing is Ollie Muldoon, while Brandon Adams has also signed on the the new season. Adams brings with him a wealth of experience having previously played for clubs including Potters Bar Town, Ware, Cheshunt and Enfield Town