By Martin Walker
Newton Aycliffe boss Allan Oliver insists Moore Lane Park is “the place to be” for players who want to enjoy their football, after he secured the signature of popular defender Darren Craddock this week.
Craddock, a former Hartlepool United star who signed for his hometown club last summer, has agreed to stay with the Newtonians for the 2012-13 campaign.
The announcement came as a huge relief for both the club and their fans, after the 27-year-old enjoyed a fantastic debut campaign in the Northern League first division.
And with high-profile nearby clubs circling for his signature this summer, it sends out a message that players want to be with Aycliffe for the right reasons.
“We’re over the moon to keep Darren,” beamed Oliver, in a Video Interview with Aycliffe Today.
CLICK HERE TO SEE HIS INTERVIEW NOW
“He was one of the main back bones of the team last season and we had one of the most careful defences in the league, only three teams conceded less than us and he was absolutely pivotal in that.
“A few teams were after him, but he’s an Aycliffe lad and he really enjoyed himself here last season.
“Players can and will go elsewhere, some have different circumstances financially and feel as though they have to go, but for the enjoyment factor, Aycliffe is the place to be.
“We don’t want to stand still, we want to keep going forward, and without doubt Darren is a great signing for us.”
Go to our Video Vault to see Oliver’s interview in full
