Jamie Proctor column: 'Relegation was a shock but we'll be back'

I honestly expected to be focusing on our success in our fight against relegation. Unfortunately, it just wasn’t meant to be.

However, the optimism I have for next season is overwhelming and I believe my sense of hope is a feeling shared throughout the whole football club and among many supporters.

The characteristics that have been on show all season are ones that will stand us in good stead in our attempt to return the Championship next year. We have done it before, so we can certainly do it again.

Yes, ultimately, we didn’t achieve our goal of survival. Nonetheless, that is only half the story. The campaign has been filled with memorable moments, admirable performances and an abundance of pride.

As a group of players and staff, we couldn’t have worked any harder in trying to maintain Championship status. To go so close is testament to everyone at the club.

Of course, we can look back at the dropped points and missed opportunities throughout the season but, then again, many other teams will probably do the same.

Despite relegation, I don’t believe anyone can question the commitment and desire of this bunch of players. Although I wasn't involved in the previous Championship campaign, I'm regularly told how the difference between the two is night and day.

I would like to thank everyone for their continued support all season, home and away. It truly is remarkable the mileage our fans cover to support the boys.

Our home form has been a huge positive and it’s an absolute pleasure to play at AESSEAL New York Stadium on a matchday.

I’m sure next season will be a positive one and it's one that I'm already extremely excited about.

League One will be a different type of test, but this group will never shy away from any challenge.

Onwards and upwards. We will be back!

Proc