TAUNTON Town head of football Rob Dray said that Ryan Brett, Shane White and Matt Wright "will be missed", but that the club would move on, with new signings to be announced in the near future.

On Sunday the club announced that Brett, White and Wright had all departed the club, the three players having played a significant role in the club's run to the FA Cup first round proper in 2016 and promotion to Southern League Premier level in 2018.

READ MORE: Three key players depart Peacocks

Midfielder Brett made 135 appearances across three seasons, defender/midfielder White 184 across four and Wright 190 across four (the latter three as club captain).

Dray told the County Gazette: "It [the players' departure] was a bit sudden.

"I had an inkling about two of them; Shane's was a bit of a surprise, but in Non-League football nothing is too much of a surprise.

"At the end of the day the club has had four great years out of them, and it's inevitable that when players come in bunches [all three joined Taunton from Truro City], they leave in bunches.

"They've contributed massively over four very successful years, and we've enjoyed some very special memories with them.

"As a club, management team and fanbase, we've been spoiled by the last few years - becoming one of the top Non-League teams in the South West.

"Wrighty is a massive character and has been a great captain - he's a leader and he puts his body on the line.

"I've never known anyone so committed to football as Shane, and his performance is eight out of 10, at least, every week.

"Ryan runs games in midfield, and his quality is up there with the best in the league."

Dray added: "They will be missed, but we move on.

"We've got things in the pipeline, and will be announcing the players who are staying, too."