Front-man signs up...
THE SADDLERS have agreed a new one-year deal with front-man, Craig Westcarr.The 28 year-old former England Under-21 International had a successful loan spell at Banks’s Stadium last term before agreeing a deal until the end of the season in January.
An intelligent performer who can play up front or out wide, he burst onto the scene with Nottingham Forest where he became the youngest-ever player to appear for their first-team at the age of 16.
He joined Cambridge United in 2005 and had a successful season with the Abbey Stadium outfit before opting to join Kettering Town, whom he helped secure promotion into the Blue Square Premier with some lively and energetic displays.
He had a brief spell at Stevenage before returning to Kettering where he scored twice against Fulham in the fourth round of the FA Cup as well as helping The Poppies prosper in the League.
Snapped up by Notts County in readiness for the 2009/10 campaign, he duly helped the club claim the League Two Championship.
He was lured to East Midlands’ rivals, Chesterfield for an undisclosed fee in August 2011 and scored one of the goals at Wembley as they lifted the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy in 2011/12.
Last term he played his part in our successful second half of the season.
“I am relieved to get things sorted,” he admitted. “It’s been a long process, but I am happy that everything is now agreed and I can concentrate on the season ahead.
“I’m really looking forward to the challenge and building on last season. This is a new start for me and I am excited by what the future holds in store here.
“Every year this League gets tougher, but there are some great games coming up and they’re the type of matches that you want to be involved in.
“I feel fit and determined; I’ve come back in decent nick and it’s been nice to get a couple of games and a goal under my belt already. That said, it’s all about making sure that we are 100% by the time that the season gets underway.
“The focus is on that game against Tranmere. I felt that we performed well at Kidderminster on Saturday in what were difficult conditions. There were plenty of positives to come out of the game, which we will be looking to build upon.
“Personally I’ve set myself targets, but I will be keeping them to myself!”
Saddlers’ boss, Dean Smith was pleased to see Westcarr commit himself to the club for the campaign ahead.
“It’s a situation that’s dragged on for a while, but I am happy that Craig has signed a new deal with us,” he said. “He was an integral part of the squad that did so well in the second half of last season.
“His knowledge of the game and intelligence on the ball will be an important ingredient in the team.
“He is also a well-respected figure amongst the rest of the lads and knows exactly what we are trying to achieve here.
“He’s already got off the mark with a goal at Kidderminster at the weekend, so hopefully more will follow.”
Westcarr will be part of the squad that travels to Alfreton Town this evening for our latest pre-season friendly fixture...