Carruthers signs with rising stars

Originally appointed as player-manager in 2013, Carruthers became the first full time manager in the club's history this weekend, overseeing both the first team and the highly successful academy, when he and Clifford were rewarded with new two year deals.

The duo are pictured flanking Fernando Bell-Toxtle and Harry Wakefield after the teenagers signed one year deals as the EVO-STIK League South leaders continued their preparations to play at a higher level next season.

Basford United chairman Chris Munroe said: "It's a momentous period for the club securing Martin and Mark to long term deals, which means we can set about our objectives with certainty and plan for an exciting future."

"The club's achievements and successes so far this campaign have been outstanding but we know where we want to take this club and we are not even half way through this journey. We are delighted to have Martin and Mark heading this up. Certainty provides stability so I am very happy and excited.”

Carruthers was delighted to secure Bell-Toxtle and Wakefield with his side still 19 points clear at the top despite this week's big freeze across the Northern Premier League ending their hopes of taking another big step towards the title against Lincoln United at Greenwich Avenue on Saturday.

The Basford boss said: “I am absolutely delighted to secure the futures of two of our up and coming stars. Fernando has surpassed all our expectations and he has done unbelievably well since joining us. We knew he could play but we did not expect him to start as many games as he has and certainly did not expect him to perform to the high levels shown thus far.

“Harry has come on leaps and bounds this season and he has forced his way into first team reckoning via sheer hard work and a great attitude and work ethic. Harry is a natural goal scorer there is no reason why even at such a young age why he can’t be pushing for a regular place for the new season."

Image courtesy of @Basfordutdfc/Twitter

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