MATT GUYMON, who Plymouth Raiders only announced yesterday had left the club, is set to join Reading Rockets.

The 23-year-old Brit u-turned after agreeing a contract with Raiders on July 30 'to remain closer to home in Southampton'.

Rockets, who play beneath the BBL in the second-tier EBL, are 50 miles from Southampton; Raiders are 150 miles.

Guymon's shock exit has upset Raiders coach Gavin Love's plans.

But it is understood rookie point-guard Guymon, who hasn't played seriously for two years, was set to back-up Taner Adu this season.

Londoner Adu, 26, is set to run Raiders' offence at point-guard this season, supported by American shooting-guard Brian McKenzie, 22.

Raiders forward Sam Cricelli, 25 and recruited from BBL rivals Worthing Thunder this summer, played alongside Guymon for England this summer.

Cricelli

(above)

, speaking at Raiders' annual media day, at the Future Inns, Derriford yesterday, said of Guymon's loss: "It's a shame. Matt's a great guy off the court and he's very talented on it.

"We definitely could have used him this season, but for personal reasons he's decided not to come down here. We wish him all the best."

Cricelli added: "I played with Matt and Taner on the England team this summer.

"We were over playing in France and we all talked about the possibility of the three of us coming down to Plymouth to play together this season.

"It was all very exciting and we all ended up signing.

"But we have other guards who can bring the ball up the floor this season. We're very versatile.

"Not having Matt won't be a problem."

Rockets finished 12-10 and mid-table in Division One of the EBL last season.

The EBL supports British basketball's top flight, the BBL, which Raiders joined from Division One in 2004/05.