TOWERING defender Jonathan Smith admits he is relieved to be staying with Accrington Stanley.

The centre back thought the worst when the club revealed they were going full-time, fearing he may have to leave the Reds due to work commitments.

But the club have agreed to let Smith continue on his part-time contract, which has another 12 months left to run.

"I have to admit I'd resigned myself to leaving when I had my meeting to discuss my contract," said Smith, who lives in Darwen and works at Hyndburn Sports Centre.

"But I was pleased when John (Coleman) suggested staying on my current contract because I wanted to stay.

"I don't know if being local had an influence in that decision, but I'm pleased with the way things have worked out."

Smith, who was voted player of the season last year, is an exception to the 'all or nothing' approach to Stanley becoming a full-time professional outfit.

But the 28-year-old doesn't believe that will go against him when it comes to manager Coleman selecting the first team.

"If someone has been involved in every game and training then maybe that will have some advantage over time," he said.

"But John will pick those who are playing well."

Smith anticipates missing only a third of training sessions thanks to a reasonably flexible working rota.

"I work on a three-week rota and the team will be training on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday every week," he said.

"Out of three weeks I will miss four out of the 12 sessions."

He added: "I'm sure there will be a number of new signings over the summer, but I'm looking forward to next season."

Meanwhile, full back Paul Howarth has agreed a two-year contract.

THE season might have only ended a week ago for Stanley but the Reds are already looking ahead to the next campaign.

Manager John Coleman has moved quickly to organise home friendlies against Crewe Alexandra on 20 July then against a mixed side from Preston North End on 22 July. Both matches will kick-off at 7.30pm.

Plans are in the pipeline for further pre-season fixtures, including two matches against Division One opposition and possibly one against a Premiership side.