HALESOWEN Town assistant manager Matt Clarke is delighted to have secured the services of veteran hitman Lee Hughes for another season.

Clarke and manager John Hill moved quickly to retain the former West Bromwich Albion striker after the club successfully fought off the threat of relegation.

Clarke said: "He's probably been the biggest reason that we stayed up.

"He's been huge for us, both on and off the pitch.

"We're delighted that he's going to be here next season."

Clarke also quashed rumours that the forward would be part of the Hales coaching set-up.

"He still wants to play and has a lot to give," he added.

"He's very experienced and I'm sure he'll be a help sometimes but he's here as a player only."

The Yeltz management duo are now busy working to secure other key players from this year's squad after they ended the season with a win.

They beat Stalybridge Celtic 2-0 at home last Saturday.

Goals from Roland Agbor and Ahmed Ali saw them sign off in style.

The victory meant the Yeltz lost just one of their final eight games as they pushed well clear of bottom-placed side Sutton Coldfield Town.

Clarke has highlighted the impact first team coach Richard Sneekes has had since arriving in January.

He said: "Richard Sneekes has had a really big impact since he came in and has played a big part in helping us avoid relegation.

"He has been outstanding as a coach and the style of play in recent weeks has had a lot to do with the work he has done."