Friday 27 June 2014 17:04, UK
Stevenage defender Jon Ashton has stepped down as captain of the club following their relegation to League Two.
The 31-year-old cites the decision to step down is purely for footballing reasons. Ashton told the club's official website: "During the close season I've had time to reflect on last season and my future career at Stevenage. One of the main things I felt I needed to make a decision on was the captaincy. "I want to get back to playing winning football and winning football matches for Stevenage FC. "For me to do this and for the benefit of the team I feel I need to concentrate 100 per cent on my own fitness and form so have therefore decided to hand the captaincy over. "I feel very proud to have been captain for Stevenage FC last season and I would not want to change that. "However, like I said, I feel it is beneficial for myself and the team to let someone else take that responsibility." Stevenage manager Graham Westley added: 'Ash gives 110 per cent in everything he does and he gave his very best to the captaincy in testing circumstances. "I support him fully in his decision to re-focus on his own form and fitness which I think will be good for him and good for us."
