I’m delighted to stay

Known for his bullish defending, Stafford Rangers centre-half Jimmy O’Neill will do anything to defend his goal.

Wearing his heart on his sleeve and giving it all at the back, O’Neill a Ranger through and through. He returned to Marston Road last season after a short spell with Stratford Town and enjoyed a further 21 matches with the side.

Eager to stay on next season, and confirmed as part of the core group of players Matt Hill has been able to keep, the fans will look forward to seeing one of their favourites partner Ethan Stewart at the back once again.

It was a marvelous end to the season which saw 14 clean sheets across it in all competitions, testament to the defence and Belford in goal. O’Neill has revealed how he sees each game and what he sets out to achieve on the pitch.

He said: “I don’t think there’s a defender in the league that can kick it as far as me, but although I know some people get frustrated that I don’t play out all the time, my job as a defender is to defend.

“Every game in the NPL is a physical one, so my mindset is to win every physical battle, headers and tackles especially.

“Every game we go out to win, but as defenders we always want a clean sheet, and sometimes that means by any means necessary.”

The 28-year-old is more than happy to be staying next season and looks forward to its beginning as he believes the side will only get stronger and move forward in the right direction.

“I’m delighted to stay,” said O’Neill.

“I left last season due to a change in job and location, and as soon as I came back it was an easy choice, staying this year was an even easier one.

“There were a number of reasons for me to stay, both personal and in terms of football. I have a great relationship with all the staff and the board, not to mention the fans.

“It’s been said by multiple people that Stafford Rangers is a good club run by good people, it’s easy to see that from the inside and the outside.

“We finished the season really strong, and I’d like to help carry that into next season. There’s a lot of last year’s ‘starting 11’ that have stayed, which I believe already gives us a head start as we have a great relationship off the pitch and on the pitch.

“We know each other as players, for example I love playing with Ethan because he’s fast enough to cover me, but I’d never pass him the ball.

“I’m sure the staff and the club are looking to bring others in which will provide that competitive edge, only pushing us forward.

“I’m confident we’re going to compete next year.”

Positive thinking from O’Neill who will look to remain a regular in Matt Hill’s side, and have a successful season with a club he adores and commended highly.

“There’s a lot to love about the rangers, it’s a good club run by good people.

“The fans provide a good following home and away and there’s always a good atmosphere around the club.

“The club has been very good to me over the last two years, and a lot of lads in non league will tell you that it’s rare a club is loyal to the player, but Stafford have definitely been that to me.”

By Luke Powell

STAFFORD RANGERS FC