Striker Brett Williams has confirmed that he will not be leaving Aldershot Town in January, and given his full support to Caretaker Manager Chris Barker.
The Shots’ top scorer has been the subject of increasing speculation during the transfer window – including rumours of interest from Scottish Premiership side St Mirren – but says: “I’m an Aldershot Town player until the end of the season, I know where I stand, and I’m very happy about that. I now hope I can get back to my goalscoring ways of last season and help the team move up the table.”
Speculation started in November, with reports that Brett had been placed on the transfer list, and he now admits: “Without me realising, it has probably affected my concentration. One minute I was allowed to go and then the next I wasn’t. But it’s all been cleared up now – Chris and the Board have been very supportive, and I’m happy.”
With preparations well underway for Barker’s first match, at Altrincham on Saturday, Williams encourages: “Recent results haven’t been good enough but Chris has come in and straight away we’ve seen improvements. Chris is very professional and although the changes have been slight, in training and preparation, the squad has welcomed them. We are now training on Fridays and that’s something I’ve wanted and needed.”
The arrival of Ryan Jarvis, on loan from York City, and return to fitness of Josh Scott has also been welcomed by the former Reading striker. “This season has been slightly different, tactically, and we didn’t quite gel. Ryan has started helping me with the physical side of games, when of late I had felt that there was a lot of weight on my shoulders as a targetman. I’ve been trying to adapt to a slightly different role, but I like to get on the ball more and run at defences, and with Ryan and Josh you share that physical responsibility.”
Now, needing to arrest a run of one victory in ten, The Shots travel to Cheshire with renewed optimism and confidence. “The boys are really excited about working with Chris,” concludes Brett. “Everybody is happy and really looking forward to Saturday.”
