DEFENDER Sam Smith has given Stourbridge a boost after signing a new contract.

The centre-back was offered improved terms during the season and has now pledged his future to the Glassboys for another 12 months.

Boss Gary Hackett said: “We are expecting big things from Sam.

“He is a very determined character who has a desire to try and better himself.

“We are looking for him to kick on again next season.”

Meanwhile, Hackett, inset, hopes to announce more player news in the next few weeks after he finished speaking to the rest of his squad.

He added: “All the players I have spoken to so far have been very positive.

“We will be looking to keep as many as possible and I’m not anticipating too many big changes.

“We probably do need a couple of fresh faces but on the whole the squad is very strong.

“We missed out on the play-offs by a whisker last season despite losing the best all-round striker in the league in Ryan Rowe.”

The Glassboys are already well ahead in pre-season planning, with a number of friendlies scheduled.

Hackett takes his side to Bromsgrove Sporting on Saturday July 14 and then to Sutton Coldfield Town a week later on July 21.

A trip to Rushall Olympic follows on July 28, Chasetown on Tuesday, August 7, before the short trip to rivals Halesowen Town on Saturday August 11.

Stour’s pre-season schedule also includes the Worcestershire Senior Cup final against Kidderminster Harriers at Aggborough on August 4.