MANAGER Peter Jackson hinted today that next season may not be Andy Booth's last in Town colours.
The 31-year-old frontman is already a legend for scoring 110 goals for the Galpharm club and for leading them to two play-off successes.
Booth (pictured) has proved his worth defensively, too, and his fitness held sufficiently for him to make 31 appearances in Town's 50 League and Cup outings last term.
His current contract expires next summer, but Jackson said today:
"Let's hope Boothy can carry on playing, because he's very important to us.
"It's obviously vital that he remains free from injury, but Boothy is a tremendous influence both on and off the field.
"I've said it many times, but ever since I came back to this club he has been excellent for me - right from Day One.
"I thought he was outstanding last season and, when he wasn't available because of the injury niggles he had, we missed him."
Booth was employed as an emergency centre-back on several occasions during Town's run-in of eight wins and a draw in the final nine League I fixtures.
Jackson doesn't believe the move needs to become permanent for Booth to extend his career, but he added:
"Boothy's aerial ability at both ends of the pitch speaks for itself and, when he's not in the team, you notice he's not in the team because of that aerial presence.
"He's a very good footballer as well, though, and all the lads respect him for what he's done in his career and learn as much as they can from him.
"You won't find any better pro, he trains every bit as intensely as the rest of the squad and, providing he remains free from injury problems, he has still got a very important role to play here."
Meanwhile, Town have confirmed they will play the new AFC Emley at the Welfare Ground on Thursday, July 28, with a 7pm kick-off.
Jackson will field a side made up of Reserve and Academy players because the previous night, his first team take on Wigan Athletic at the Galpharm (7.45).
