Brakes fans will no doubt be delighted to learn that both Junior English and James Mace will both be returning to the first team squad for the forthcoming season.
Both players are comfortably in the 'veteran' stages of their careers but show no signs of stopping, and both contributed considerably in the previous campaign.
Although 20 of his 30 appearances were made from the substitutes bench last season Junior remained an important member of Paul Holleran's squad, not least for his versatility, and he added another 3 goals to his tally, which now also includes over 170 appearances in the Gold and Black since he arrived from Worcester City in 2017.
Meanwhile James completed a tremendous return from the ACL injury he sustained back in March 2019 by making nearly 30 appearances for Bromsgrove Sporting in the first half of last season, including playing in the 1st Round Proper of the FA Cup, before returning to Leamington before Christmas and re-establishing himself in central defence and finally breaking the club's modern day appearance record set by Josh Blake back in 2009/10.
A triumphant return to action was capped in the Birmingham Senior Cup Final as James scored the third and clinching goal against Stourbridge at the home of Aston Villa, the team he supports.
The manager was delighted to have his two most experienced heads back in the squad, saying 'Both Junior and James are a shining example to any young player. Both had to bide their time on the bench for periods last season but they have proved time and again that they more than capable of performing at National League North level. They are brilliant to work with and I am very pleased they have agreed to remain with us.'
Both players were keen to stress how much they have enjoyed playing for the club, and that it was not a difficult decision to make to stay: Junior said: 'I’m happy to be re-signing at Leamington. The gaffer knows I can still do a job at this level so there was never any hesitation in signing. Like a few of the others have said, Leamington is a place where you enjoy coming to play football. We’ve got a top gaffer and coaching staff and a really good bunch of lads in that changing room to go with some really top people behind the scenes, along with fans that make this a brilliant football club!!'
James said: 'I'm excited to get another season at Leamington. When you find a club like this it’s a pleasure to be around on and off the pitch. Surround yourself with good people and good things will happen. I just know we will have a successful season, everyone and everything is progressing. Keep the support coming as it means a lot. Let’s fly the flags high and be the best we can this season!!
Up the Brakes!'
Up the Brakes!'
