Stuart Whitehead ready for AFC Telford's Blue Square Premier season

Veteran defender Stuart Whitehead insists he is ready to cope with the demands and rigours of the Blue Square Bet Premier.

Whitehead, who turns 35 in July, admits he began the Bucks promotion winning campaign believing it would be last before retiring.

But he is now ready to pit his wits back at the top level of non-League football.

"When I started the season just gone, I thought it would be my last," admitted Whitehead, who expects to to meet boss Andy Sinton to tie up the loose ends on his deal for next season shortly.

"But I have felt a lot leaner and fitter this season than I have done for a while and I think I only missed one plan through injury.

"I really wanted to achieve something in football and in getting promoted this season, I feel as though we have done that.

"I had a chat with the gaffer who wanted me to continue and I'm really excited about next season so I can't wait to get started again."

Whitehead believes the Bucks squad will thrive on life at the higher level.

"Throughout my career, I have always thought that people have played at their best when they are enjoying the game," he added.

"There were times last season when you couldn't really enjoy it because we played on some really poor pitches and you just had to make sure you did a job.

"Now we are going to be playing at bigger stadiums and on better pitches and I'm sure the lads will absolutely love it."

By JAMES GARRISON