BROMSGROVE Sporting boss Brendan Kelly breathed a huge sigh of relief this week after striker Jason Cowley chose to remain with the Rouslers for the remainder of the season.

Cowley had been the subject of interest from a National League North side who served seven days notice of approach.

The interest couldn’t have arrived at a worst time with Cowley’s prolific strike partner Richard Gregory ruled out for several weeks after pulling his hamstring in the latter stages of the Rousler’s slender 1-0 win over a dogged Bedford Town.

That was after Gregory had earlier put the Rouslers in front with his 23rd league goal of the season following some delightful inter-passing between Cowley and Josh Quaynor.

But Kelly was dealt an unexpected setback when both Danny Morris and Craig Jones chose to leave the club.

Kelly said: “It’s disappointing because I’ve played with both of them in addition to being their manager. Both have played a very important part in this club’s growth.

“We haven’t fallen out and I can understand it in Craig’s situation because he’s been in and out of the side this season. Added to that, I’ve brought in Dunstable Town central defender Kyle Lincoln who made a very impressive debut against Bedford.

“But their decision to leave has still come as a surprise and I want to wish both them the very best for the future”.

Kelly admitted his side were forced to dig deep against Bedford and described the victory as ’My most pleasing result of the season’.

He added: “Bedford had a spell in the second half when they really penned us in and we had to maintain our concentration levels to keep them out."

Equally pleasing was the size of support with over 1,000 spectators packing into the Victoria Ground and Kelly confirmed: “It’s great to see so many supporters coming back to club. Bedford brought a few supporters as well, which made for a superb atmosphere."

Kelly will look to bring in another striker this week, possibly on a short term deal, ahead of Saturday’s home fixture against fifth from bottom Kempston Rovers.