01 Jun 2026
Leo Sery, St Albans City’s top scorer with 20 goals in all competitions last season, has turned down the chance to stay at Clarence Park and instead signed a two-year deal with Chelmsford City of the National League South, writes Jess Unwin.
The striker was a standout success for Saints in an otherwise disappointing season for the club and it’s no surprise that his eye for goal, work ethic and steady temperament have secured him the chance to play at a higher level.
A St Albans City FC statement said: “Everyone at the Saints thanks Leo for his service to the club and extends their best wishes for the next chapter in his career.”
On City’s Facebook page one supporter commented: “A class above. Wish we could’ve kept him but we were lucky to have him at all.” Another said: “Just an indication of which direction the club is going – only a few years ago we beat Chelmsford in the play-offs and now look where we are!”
Meanwhile, midfielder Jake Gray is the second new signing to arrive at Clarence Park, joining the Saints from local rivals Hemel Hempstead Town.
With more than 50 games in the football league and 180-plus appearances at the National League level, the 30-year-old will bring further experience to the squad.
Gray began his senior playing career at Crystal Palace and then had spells at Luton Town, Yeovil Town and Woking until he was recruited by Saints manager Gary McCann during his tenure as boss at Hampton and Richmond Borough.
Gray went on to make more than 150 appearances for the Beavers between 2019 and 2025 before spending the 2025/26 season with Hemel Hempstead.
He told the club’s podcast, Saints and the City: “I’m someone who is going to give 110%. Hopefully I can bring that professionalism that I’ve picked up across the years at multiple levels. I think I can be one of the wiser heads to pick some of the younger heads up too.”
