Hednesford Town boss, Rob Smith, has backed Elliott Durrell to be a success at Skrill North level this season as last year’s top scorer finally put pen to paper on a new one-year deal at the weekend.

The news comes ahead of The Pitmen’s opening fixture of the season against Stalybridge on Saturday and Smith believes the prolific midfielder can make the step up to continue where he left off last season.

‘It’s a step up for Elliott, as it is for all of the players, so he must realise it is not going to be easy and he will have to endure some frustrating periods, but he has the ability to cause damage to defences in this league. I’m sure he will work hard to make a real impact. If he scored twenty goals this year it would be a fantastic achievement at this level.’

The ex-Telford player, whose progress was blighted by two bad knee injuries a couple of years ago, had by far his best season for The Pitmen last term as his team won promotion through the Evo-Stik Northern Premier Division Playoffs, plundering 30 goals including a 100% record of 18 penalties out of 18 and, despite a nervous wait for Hednesford fans, Smith was never in any doubt that Durrell would commit his future to Keys Park.

‘I’m delighted, but to be fair, I did not really ever doubt he would sign. Elliott enjoys it here and is a big part of what we are all about and I have no doubts he has the potential to push on and do very well in the game.’

Durrell will be pushing for a starting berth on Saturday as The Pitmen look for a positive start to the season and, with the player now signed up, the opportunity is available for any businesses or supporters to sponsor the player this season for £120 by contacting the Club Commercial Office on 01543 422870 or office@hednesfordtownfc.com.