BRIDPORT manager Adam Fricker admitted that signing experienced centre-back Chris McGrath was a priority for the Bees in the off-season.

McGrath, who has Southern League experience with Bideford, Taunton, Frome and Bridgwater, joined the St Mary’s Field outfit late last season and has now committed to next term.

He joins star striker Mark Salter in signing for the upcoming campaign, along with the vast majority of last season’s squad including Leighton Thomas, Richard Hebditch, Louis Rutter and Braeden Symes.

Speaking to Echosport, Fricker explained that McGrath had been one of Bridport’s “key defenders” last season.

He said: “Coming for 10 games at the back end of last season we were unsure what he would be going to do going forward to next year. He was one of our key defenders.

“We had a good meeting and left him to mull over a few options. We’re delighted that he’s coming back for next season.

“He’s obviously experienced at the levels above and also the younger lads that we’ve got in the team will benefit from playing alongside someone like Macca.

Fricker added that McGrath’s presence gives the Bees a “great base” in defence.

He said: “Securing Salts and Macca were two of the biggest priorities when the season ended because there were question marks.

“It gives us good confidence because Macca gives us a great base to build from at the back and gives us options with the defenders we’ve already got at the club.

“He’s quite a quiet lad – he will say what needs to be said. On the pitch a lot of lads have commented that he’s a great organiser.

“He goes about his job and gets people in the right positions. The lads respect him with what he’s achieved in the game as well.

“For us to be able to attract a player like that just shows the strides that we’ve made over the last couple of years.”

But Fricker hinted that “a couple” of last season’s clubs had attracted interest from higher league clubs.

He said: “Thirteen of last season’s squad have committed to staying on. There’s a couple of others that have had interest from Southern League clubs and are in discussion to take opportunities.

“If people want to go and further their careers they will go with our blessing, without a doubt.”

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