JASON Matthews described Calvin Brooks as “one of the outstanding centre-halves in the league” after confirming the defender had signed a fresh one-year deal with the club for next season.

Brooks, who took the skipper’s armband at the end of the last term, was believed to have had a number clubs vying for his signature from higher up the footballing pyramid but has decided to remain at the Bob Lucas Stadium for another campaign.

And there was nobody more elated with the retention of the former Yeovil Town man than player-manager Matthews.

“I am absolutely delighted,” he told Echosport.

“He had a great season for us last year and for him to agree is obviously a step in the right direction.

“I feel like he was one of the outstanding centre-halves in the league last year and we were desperate to keep him.

“He had a few offers from clubs a couple of leagues higher but, for him to stay, speaks volumes for the spirit I have in the camp.”

He added: “We want to go one step further next season and I think everybody is buying into that.

“I am very close to agreeing terms with nine or 10 of the lads from last season now. I feel we are making big progress.

“I feel really positive about next season and, with a couple more forward-thinking players on my shopping list, we are not going to be far away.”

While also attempting to tie down a number of players for next term, Matthews also revealed that he has arranged home pre-season friendly fixtures with Exeter City (Friday, July 8) and Plymouth Argyle (Saturday, July 23).

And, after last year’s pre-season plans were scuppered somewhat, the Terras’ chief is happy to get two big fixtures secured early.

“Last year we missed out on a lot of pre-season friendlies and I don’t want to be making that mistake again,” he said.

“To get two of that calibre I am really chuffed with. A couple of others have given us good feedback as well but haven’t confirmed dates just yet.”