When talks of a new deal were raised, Sam Hodgson didn’t need any persuading to sign at Morpeth Town.
The midfielder, signed two seasons ago, before our Evo-Stik East and Senior Cup double-winning season, has been superb for the Highwaymen, making the holding position his own in a midfield that was already packed with talented players.
The former Shildon man was coming to the end of his current deal, but quickly agreed to two more years at Craik Park, believing another special campaign could be in the offing.
“I think the squad we ended the season with has more than enough ability to compete for a league title at this level so that was a big factor,” Hodgson told the club website.
“Also, on a personal level I’ve really enjoyed the last two seasons so when Nick wanted to talk about a new deal, I didn’t need any persuading.”
A couple of years ago, many players would have been put off attempting to find a spot in a midfield already containing the likes of Wayne Phillips, Ben Sayer and David Carson. But Hodgson backed himself, despite fierce competition for places.
“I wouldn’t say it was a concern when I first signed,” continued Hodgson, who made 38 appearances in all competitions last season.
“It’s easy to say it now two years later, but I wouldn’t have signed if I didn’t back myself to have a positive impact on the squad.”
So what about next season’s ambitions?
“If we continue the form from the end of last season, I don’t see any reason why we shouldn’t be competing for the league title,” added the midfielder.
“It’s hard to win a league title, and I think you need a bit of luck along the way, but I think everyone in the squad will be of the same opinion.”
