 The 1981–82 season started dismally, causing attendances to drop below 10,000.A late-season run of thirteen games with only one defeat and progress to the FA Cup quarter finals, inspired by former England captain Gerry Francis, left supporters feeling more optimistic by the end of the season.But this was short-lived, as further players were sold the following season including Garry Thompson, who was sold to West Bromwich for just £225,000.