Up-and-coming 'keeper commits...
THE SADDLERS have agreed a new one-year deal with up-and-coming goalkeeper, Craig MacGillivray.The 22 year-old arrived at Banks’s Stadium last summer after we fought off plenty of competition from elsewhere to secure his services from Harrogate Town.
Developing well during the course of last season, he finally got his first-team opportunity in the final two games of the campaign.
“I have been pleased with his development over the past 12 months,” said Saddlers’ boss, Dean Smith. “He works hard and has worked well under Neil Cutler.
“He’s been a steady performer for the reserves and I expect him to continue getting better.
“He was given his chance in the final two games of the season and now I want to see him competing to be first-choice between the posts.”
“This is a massive boost for me,” added MacGillivray. “I am delighted to get another year and hopefully I can stake my claims.
“The progress I have made since I have been at the club has been frightening, to be honest. Neil Cutler has worked wonders with me and put so much effort into my development in all aspects of my game.
“Richard O’Donnell has been like a brother figure to me both on and off-the-field, whilst Liam Roberts has also played his part.
“It’s been a real team effort, but that is something that comes from the top with the Gaffer. He and Richard O’Kelly have created the right environment in which players like myself can progress.
“It is based around respect and being given the freedom to express ourselves and learn from each other. The work ethic that exists here means that you can’t fail to develop.
“Getting my first taste of senior action here in the final two games has certainly whetted my appetite. The fans gave me a great reception and both games that I played in were very much part of my learning curve.
“It will be interesting to see what the 2015/16 season brings. Last year was more about development but now I have a determination to kick-on and play more games.
“I am already working hard in preparation because it is going to be a big season for me.”