After missing out on the Ryman South play-offs, Carshalton Athletic have begun plotting for the new season by securing two of the team’s brightest stars.
Top scorer Tommy Bradford, who hit 31 goals last season, and defender Bobby Price will both be at Colston Avenue come August after extending their contracts for another year.
Both players have come through the ranks at Carshalton and reaffirms the club’s policy of backing talented youngsters at first-team level.
“I was more than happy to stay with the club for another season despite ending this one with mixed emotions,” said Bradford, whose most recent goal tally was a seasonal best since breaking into the first-team five years ago.
“It was a great season for me personally but I’m still disappointed we didn’t make the play-offs.
“It was the first time a lot of us had been in that position of chasing promotion, so we should learn from that experience and go again next season.
“Both the boss and the chairman want us to push on and I’ll be aiming to carry on where I left off come August.”
Price, who predominately plays at right back, finished with a career best nine goals and also skippered the side numerous times last season. He also claims to be only too happy to remain a Robin.
“I spoke to (chairman) Paul Dipre about next season and everything seems positive both on and off the pitch,” added the 21-year old, remarking on both manager Peter Adeniyi staying and an upcoming new clubhouse being planned.
“I really enjoyed this past season and, although we just missed out, the push for promotion was exciting. We are encouraged to play good football under Peter and I like the fact the club continues to back its youth.
“I think we have to be a favourite for promotion next season, especially keeping players like Tommy, and I can’t wait for pre-season to get started.”
Dipre himself added: “We have a lot of talented youngsters who, under Peter’s leadership, can shape a very exciting future for us.
“The next two seasons are key for the club’s development and players like Tommy and Bobby will help us get to where we need to be.”
The FA announced the clubs contesting for next season’s Ryman South title last week with Ashford United, Haywards Heath Town, Phoenix Sports, Thamesmead Town and VCD Athletic joining the fray for 2017/18.
Featured image courtesy of Ian Gerrard, with thanks
