WINSFORD United can count again next season on a striker that played a pivotal role in helping Blues avoid relegation.

The club announced on Tuesday that front man Sam Madeley, who scored 10 goals in 13 appearances following a transfer from Glossop at the turn of the year, has agreed to stay at Barton Stadium.

He is the second player to commit to the North West Counties League Premier Division club for another year after Steve Jenyons, a central defender, signed a contract in February.

When asked by the Guardian, manager Lee Duckworth agreed that the former Salford City and FC United of Manchester attacker is among his best recruits.

“He’s got to be up there,” he said.

“His attitude has been spot on since he came through the door, and I think you can tell by his cheesy grin that he’s enjoying his football again here with us.

“We’ve helped a few players in the past few seasons to rediscover that feeling again after they’ve fallen out of love a bit with the game.”

Blues preserved their top-flight status following a 2-1 win against 1874 Northwich on Easter Monday.

Madeley put Winsford ahead that afternoon before scoring a double in a 3-2 reverse at Padiham later that week.

However they were denied by Kieron Kenny’s late header from recording a notable win against Northwich Victoria in the Mid-Cheshire District FA Senior Cup final last Thursday.

His goal replied to Dave Short’s opener against his former club before Vics prevailed 4-3 in a penalty shoot-out.