GOALKEEPER Will Henry had no interest in delaying his commitment to Swindon Town when offered a fresh contract by Richie Wellens, and has since stated his intention to earn the right to wear the number one shirt.

Henry signed a new one-year deal at the Energy Check County Ground last Friday, with the club having the option of extending his contract for an additional season in 12 months’ time.

The 20-year-old did not make a first-team appearance during the 2018-19 season, but did enjoy successful loan spells at Chippenham Town, Swindon Supermarine and Gloucester City in non-league.

And those spells away from SN1 has granted Town’s young keeper the confidence needed to now push Luke McCormick to be the club’s first-choice option between the sticks.

He said: “Once I got offered the deal, I knew I was going to sign it – and I’m happy to be at Swindon for another season.

“There was never a doubt in my mind, I want to stay at Swindon. The time I have had at the club has been good, and I’ve had a fair amount of games in the first team.

“I’m looking to push on and hopefully add some more appearances to my name.”

Henry’s extensive list of loan experiences in the season just passed is largely down to the opinion of Town goalkeeping coach Steve Mildenhall.

Mildenhall was keen to send the Bristol-born stopper out on loan throughout the 2018/19 season.

And Henry admits he has felt great benefits from making 30 non-league appearances throughout the season – as opposed to being sat on the bench having trained from Monday until Friday.

He said: “Working alongside Steve has been good, I’ve really enjoyed working with him this season.

“His view for me was to go out on loan last season and get games – I totally agreed with that because at my age, I need to be playing.

“I’ve managed to get 30 games under my belt as a result, and that has benefitted myself massively.

“I feel like I have developed, learnt a lot and gain more experience throughout the season.

“I prefer that hands-on experience, and I believe it’s crucial at my age so in the future I can push on and be a contender for the number one shirt.

“Whatever level you play at, every team wants to win. That winning mentality is a part of any team – so being part of a non-league club is important.

“It placed me into a situation that is realistic for any club at any level of football. Being exposed to that has had its huge benefits.”