Joe Grant leaves Bracknell Town as Robins add QPR midfielder on permanent deal

Southern League Premier Division South Bracknell Town have confirmed the departure of striker Joe Grant.

The Robins confirmed Grant’s exit, saying he is pursuing opportunities elsewhere, with the talisman writing on social media “a massive thank you to everyone at Bracknell.”

Announcing the move on social media, the club said: “Today the club can confirm Joe Grant has left the club after mutually terminating his contract, for Joe to pursue opportunities elsewhere.

“After rejoining his boyhood club in the summer, Joe leaves in high regard as he has been a key figure in our turnaround in form this season.

“We wish Joe all the best at his next club and beyond.”

It has since been confirmed Grant has signed for Bracknell’s Southern League rivals Basingstoke Town.

‘A figurehead for the club’s success’

Joe Grant has been there and done it for Bracknell Town. Despite a spell away that included experience at Slough Town, Hayes & Yeading United and Chesham United, Grant has always been there driving success for the Robins.

A key member of Bobby Wilkinson’s ‘juggernaut’ side that won the Isthmian League South Central Division One in 2022, conceding just 12 goals and scoring 90, he was also a key component of the side’s rise out of the Hellenic League after originally signing in 2016 from Ascot United.

That first spell saw him play 133 times, scoring 68 goals, catching the eye of National League South Slough in the process.

Grant may be departing, but the Robins have confirmed the extension of several players loan spells with QPR’s Jack McDowell staying until the end of the season while Jahiem Dotse has also extended his loan for a similar period of time from Wycombe Wanderers.

Another QPR youngster, Jake Coomes, has extended his loan for another month.

QPR midfielder signs permanently

As well as loans, Bracknell Town have signed former QPR development captain Harry Murphy on a permanent deal.

The club announced the move on social media, saying: “The 22-year-old attacking midfielder joins the club after an impressive 11-year spell at Queens Park Rangers’ academy. Harry captained the QPR Development side to Premier League Cup success last season and was deservedly named their Player of the Season. With first-team experience already to his name, he arrives at the SB Stadium as a young player with outstanding potential and quality. We’re excited to welcome Harry to the club and look forward to seeing his impact in a Bracknell shirt.”