Westlake: We can win the title next term

Needham Market midfielder Ian Westlake reckons the club can win the Ryman North title next season if they can keep the majority of the Marketmen’s squad together.

Injury ruled the 30-year-old out of much of the run-in as Mark Morsley’s side pushed for a play-off place and Westlake believes another promotion push is on the cards after agreeing new deal at Bloomfields for next season.

The former Leeds United and Ipswich Town star scored eight times in 31 appearances last season and tipped the club to be among the contenders in an interview with www.greenun24.co.uk on Wednesday.

Westlake, pictured, said: "Last season we started the season off with so many different players. Almost the whole squad was new. These sort of things happen at professional clubs but you soon get to know players as you are spending a lot of time with them. But in Non-League you might only meet up on Tuesdays and Thursdays pre-season, so it takes time to get to know people.

"What I will say is that if Mark [Morsley] keeps the same squad together, with perhaps a couple of additions, then Needham Market will win the league next season. Not only was the squad that finished the season very strong but we have some excellent academy youngsters coming through as well."

Image courtesy of www.greenun24.co.uk