Pic: Andy Nunn
MIDFIELDER Jake Gallagher says he would have been “silly” not to sign a new deal with Aldershot Town as seven others followed his lead by putting pen to paper.
The England C international will be staying with the Shots for a third season having already made 78 appearances, scoring six goals for the club.
The combative midfielder has become a fans’ favourite in Hampshire and he says signing up for another campaign was a no-brainer as the Shots try and cling onto their National League play-off place with the in-form club good value for promotion with the best betting odds.
Gallagher, who signed from Welling United in the summer of 2015, told the club’s website: “There’s no question about it, I was happy to sign.
“The season has been brilliant, the boys are fantastic, and with the feeling around the whole club I’d be a bit silly not to sign! Everything about the club is moving in the right direction and I want to be part of that. This is definitely the best team spirit at any club I’ve been involved in, and the whole atmosphere is brilliant.
“The connection I have with the fans was another massive factor in signing – I don’t think I’ll get that feeling anywhere else. Hearing the fans sing my name gives me goosebumps. I just do my best, and give my all, and I’m glad that the fans can see how much I care.”
It has already paid dividends with goalkeeper Jake Cole, defenders Callum Reynolds, Will Evans and Nick Arnold, midfielder Jim Kellermann and strikers Scott Rendell and Matt McClure all signing one-year deals alongside Gallagher.
Discussions have continued with the rest of Waddock’s squad while impressive youngster Idris Kanu is under contract until 2019.
“The board are delighted to have been able to work with Gary to retain so many of this season’s squad so early,” said chairman Shahid Azeem.
“I’m sure the supporters will also be very happy to see their favourite players staying at the club, with excitement already building for next season, whichever division we play in.”
