CHIPPENHAM Town have re-signed homegrown talents Caine Bradbury and Will King ahead of the 2023-24 National League South season.
Both midfielders emerged through the Bluebirds’ academy and played significant parts in the most recent campaign where Chippenham finished 13th.
Bradbury exclusively spent his youth career in his home town of Chippenham before making his senior debut towards the end of the 2021-22 season under manager Gary Horgan.
After featuring in the play-off games against Dartford and Ebbsfleet United, Bradbury was a regular member of the Bluebirds’ midfield in 2022-23.
He scored some highly impressive goals from long range as well as a couple of important ones too – the late winner against Met Police in the Bluebirds’ record-breaking FA Cup run last term arguably tops the list.
Having picked up the club’s Young Player of the Season award most recently, Bradbury is expected to be a key asset for the club moving forward.
Speaking to Chippenham’s media team about re-signing Bradbury, manager Horgan said: “Caine had an excellent breakthrough year last season and scored some important and spectacular goals.
“We’re delighted that ‘one of our own’ continues his football journey with us and I am looking forward to seeing him improve again this season.”
Meanwhile, Bradbury said: “Buzzing to have signed on another season at my home town club.
“Playing my first full season last year was very enjoyable and I’m excited to get back playing in front of the fans and pushing for even more success.”
King – who began his youth career at Swindon Town – is another product of the Chippenham academy who was given his chance around the time Horgan took over at the Thornbury Surfacing Stadium.
The versatile player spent plenty of time at left-back last year, but Horgan suggested King may be used in central midfield a lot more next season.
He said: “Will is another product of our Bluebirds Academy and he had a fantastic season last year.
“He showed real versatility with some quality displays at left-back and just got better and better as the season went on.
“With close-season player movements, he’ll get the opportunity more this season to stake a claim in his favoured midfield role.
“I’m looking forward to seeing what improvements and what we can achieve working together.”
Discussing his new deal, King said: “I am delighted to be back with The Bluebirds for the upcoming season, especially with it being my home town. I can’t wait to see some familiar faces and can’t wait to welcome the new ones!
“Hoping to build on a positive season from last year for me and the team and push on even further.
“I’ll be looking forward to seeing the fans back at the Thornbury Surfacing Stadium, up The Bluebirds!”
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