Gray, Ian  |  DOB: November 18th, 1987

FC MMIX debut: August 2009, vs MKXI (8-2 victory)

A no-nonsense defender, Ian could almost be described as a typically ‘old school’ centre-back with his direct and uncompromising approach. Strong in the air, brutal in the challenge and calm on the ball, Ian came through the 2009 trial sessions with his hard-working, competitive and determined attitude.

Total 2009/10 appearances: 22 (1 goal)

A real livewire and genuine character, Ian was one of the most regular players within the matchday squad missing only 6 games throughout the entire campaign – 5 of them through injury. A centre-back through trade, Ian also featured as a makeshift goalkeeper in a handful of games and netted his one and only goal of the season with a bullet header in the 2-0 victory over Inter Inchley Reserves in November 2009. The season ended on a sad note for Ian though after a straight red card for violent conduct in the Supplementary Cup quarter-final against Machzone in April 2010 meant that he was forced to miss much of early 2010/11 through suspension.

Total 2010/11 appearances: 25 (1 goal)

After completing his suspension, Ian got right back to where he needed to be with a series of consistence and committed performances in the heart of the defence – as well as a brace of appearances between the sticks – striking up strong partnerships with the likes of Karl Jones and Scotty Page, and then both of the aforementioned as MMIX switched to a 3-5-2 formation midway through the season. His influence both on and off the pitch was there for all to see, and his customary one goal of the season came courtesy of a ludicrously audacious backheel against Kings Arms in August 2010 to round off the 6-1 victory.