After speculation linking defenders Mark Roberts and Jon Ashton with other clubs all summer, Stevenage can now confirm that the pair have committed their futures to Stevenage FC for the rest of this season.
Chairman Phil Wallace and Manager Gary Smith have been in talks with the central defensive partnership for several weeks, following a series of bids from fellow League One side Doncaster Rovers which were all rejected. The players have now stated their desire to stay with Stevenage and try to better the achievements of last season.
Phil Wallace said “Our transfer policy was clear throughout the process and even though they are both out of contract at the end of this season, we made it clear that we would not sell such important players to a club in the same division as us before the season starts - that would make a mockery of what we’re trying to achieve here.
"Mark and Jon have given so much to the Club in the past few seasons that they deserved to be treated differently. They have both been inspirational for us and we need to keep that drive going as long as possible. At the end of the season we’ll look at it again, but I’m so pleased we’ve found the middle ground that allows us all to totally focus on the job in hand. Now it’s onwards to the new season!”
Mark Roberts versus AFC Wimbledon on Tuesday
as Jon Ashton continues his injury comeback.