MANAGER Julian Workman is backing midfielder Mat Fearon to bring up his century in style with some big performances for Redditch Borough.

Fearon has signed up for a fourth season in Borough colours and seems set to pass 100 appearances with 86 matches and 18 goals already to his name.

The confirmation of Fearon’s commitment is a welcome boost for Workman who has acted quickly to replace three key personnel over the summer.

“We’re delighted to have Mat back on board,” said Workman. “His progress has been pleasing to watch during his time with us, despite injuries playing their part last season.

“Now is the time for all of the lads to take the chance to kick on, especially with some regular faces moving on and we know Mat has the potential to carry that responsibility.

“Because of the way players move around at this level, it is rare for many to go past 100 games but I am confident he can do that and have a real impact this season. His flexibility in midfield gives us options.”

Fearon scored with Billy Garvey notching six as Borough kicked off their pre-season preparations with a 9-3 win at Cannock United on Saturday.

On the victory, which also featured goals for strikers Steve Joynes and Rob Bruce, Workman said: “You can never get too carried away but the most pleasing thing was the performance.

“After a bit of upheaval, a few people felt we might struggle so to have such a good pattern about our play and carry a threat from minute one was great. Of course, there is plenty of work to do but Saturday was a very good base for us to build from.”

Borough travel to Inkberrow for a final warm-up match on Saturday, August 5.