Dan Preston surprised by new AFC Telford deal

The 21-year-old has had his deal extended by an extra year as new boss Liam Watson begins to build a squad which he hopes will challenge for promotion from Blue Square North.

Preston reckon the offer of a new contract was a much-needed vote of confidence after a difficult campaign.

The former Hereford United player made 24 appearances as the Bucks were relegated from the Blue Square Premier but admits he was not confident on getting a new deal.

Preston found himself in and out of the side as Telford were stuck on their mammoth winless run. His appearance in the final day's 4-0 defeat to Hereford United was his first in more than a month.

Preston said: "After the Hereford game, when Lee Carter said they wanted to keep me on I was surprised because not many players have been kept on so far.

"I said I would love to carry on here. I think we have got to look to go straight back up. I have spoken to Liam who said he wanted to take up the option on me.

"I thought I played well this season but as we weren't getting results it does knock your confidence a bit."

Preston endured a difficult start to the season and ex-boss Andy Sinton spoke openly about sacking the player, after two red cards saw him miss 10 matches through suspension.

But Watson has decided to keep him and is now looking for an experienced defender to partner Preston.