This might be a small story of human nature to gladden the heart of even the most cynical.

Croydon Athletic, after losing all their coaching staff and players when the money ran out, put out an appeal offering the chance to play in the Ryman League to players who felt they have missed out on their big chance with other clubs.

This week, the club was forced to make an announcement asking for no further applications after they had been swamped with footballing hopefuls.

The Rams lost 4-0 at Hendon yesterday, so the rebuilding of the first team will take a while longer yet. But given that Athletic’s Academy side managed to score eight in their most recent game, things might be looking up at the KT Stadium.