HAPPY keeper Matt Glennon reckons Town will flourish under Stan Ternent’s straight-forward managerial approach.

The 29-year-old stopper yesterday signed two-year terms (with the option of a further year) and fully intends to help Town make a strong challenge for promotion in their centenary season under Ternent’s experienced guidance.

Former St Johnstone player Glennon – who has become the first Town keeper since Brian Cox 26 years ago to keep five straight clean sheets – is delighted to be staying as part of what will be a much-changed squad.

“We’ve had two approaches in the two years I’ve been here which haven’t worked, so maybe Stan’s approach will,” said Glennon.

“We had good talks about my contract – he was straight down the line, which is what I’m like – and I’m encouraged by what the manager is saying he wants for the team.

“I think it’s going to be a good year, I’m really glad to be staying at Town and there could be nothing better than if we can be up at the top of the league in our centenary season.

“The manager has made a quick assessment of things here and he’s made it clear he’s going to strengthen the squad.

“People will come in to create real competition for places, which is what it’s all about, and then it’s up to us to deal with the pressure – not just of being at the top of the league but of having people snapping at your heels for places.”

Glennon has now played 101 matches at the Galpharm, missing only the Leeds derby at Elland Road this term after controversially being sent-off at Southend. His form reached a peak towards the end of the campaign, and he’s now gone 456 minutes without conceding a goal (since the 2-2 home draw against Doncaster on April 5).

“It’s nice to be the first goalkeeper for a quarter of a century to achieve that for the club and I seem to break some sort of record most seasons,” he said.

“I scored a goal one season, saved three penalties in a game the next and now these five clean sheets. It’s a record to be proud of, not just for me but for the whole defence.

“I know Rob Page isn’t here any more, but Nathan Clarke has been involved pretty much all season and I think he’s been fantastic as well.

“We’ve got a good squad, and it’s going to get stronger. We’ll miss some of the lads who have gone, but Andy Booth, the two Clarkes, Jon Worthington and the rest – we’ve got a good bunch.

“I think everyone feels there is change in the air, and it’s very positive. It’s going to be very interesting and I’m happy to be involved.”

Ternent believes he’s got one of the best keepers in the league.

He said: “I see Matt as an integral part of the squad and I rate him as highly as any goalkeeper in the league. I’m pleased to have him signed up.”