IRON HAVE SHOWN US ALL THE WAY
MATT PAINE says Boreham Wood are the fresh challenge he needs and thinks former club Braintree Town have given everyone hope for next season.
The 28-year-old, who is comfortable in defence or midfielder, has left the Iron after six years.
He joined the Essex club from Thurrock when they were in the Conference South and has been a big part of their rise, which culminated in last season’s third-place finish.
Paine will also take on coaching responsibilities at Wood’s academy as he looks to the future, and feels it’s the right time to move on.
“It was a difficult decision to leave Braintree but it was time for another challenge,” Paine said. “I’ve had six great years there.
“I spoke to manager Luke Garrard a couple of weeks ago before I went on holiday. He really sold me the club and what they want to do. They’ve got a really good set-up there.”
Paine follows Braintree team-mate Kenny Davis to Boreham Wood, as the Iron squad that did so well last year breaks up. England C internationals Alex Woodyard and Sam Habergham will play elsewhere next season, as will defender Matt Fry. But Paine says Braintree have the right manager in Jamie Day, who has signed defender Barney Williams from Welling, to take them forward. “I’ve heard lots of good things about Jamie and I’m sure they will keep doing well under him,” he said.
“I think we showed at Braintree when you can achieve with the right players and team spirit. I’m sure that a lot of other clubs will look at that for next season.”