Hinshelwood delighted as Beard and Smith sign new Worthing deals

The duo have been among a number of players in discussion over a new deal as Worthing look to put a squad in place capable of competing at the top tier of the non-league game.

Vice-captain Beard was first to extend his stay at the Sussex Transport Community Stadium. The left-back came back from an injury-plagued season to play a pivotal part in an unprecedented campaign for the Rebels. Colossal performances in the run-in helped solidify the defence and earn vital points in the quest for promotion.

An uncompromising defender, Beard started eight out of the Reds’ final nine matches as they soared to the summit of the National League South table with seven victories during a decisive period.

After commencing the season in typically strong fashion under Chris Agutter, which included the 28-year-old netting his first and only goal for the Reds in the 4-3 away victory away to Horsham, the defender suffered a long-term knee injury shortly after Adam Hinshelwood’s appointment.

Following four months on the sidelines, Beard returned to action in early March before regaining full fitness at an opportune time to become a key contributor to a period of success.

During the season, he completed a half century of appearances in all competitions for the club in the. In total, he featured on 27 occasions last season, with 23 of those occurring in the league.

One of the more experienced characters in the dressing room, Beard is familiar with the demands of fifth-tier football, having competed at the level while at Barnet.

Hinshelwood said: “Beardy signing is a massive boost for us. He was a big part of our success towards the end of the season and is a player that has National League experience, which is going to be vital for our squad.”

Beared said the title win was a clear motivator to continue his progression and career at the club.

“I’m buzzing to extend my stay another year and play for this club in the National League,” Beard said. “What we achieved together last year was amazing and I’m hoping for more memories like that.”

Smith is another player to commit his future to the Reds, the young forward signing a long-term contract.

The attacker, who has just turned 21, had an outstanding pre-season where the forward netted four goals in five pre-season friendlies, and then appeared a handful of times for the Rebels in the opening months.

His season was heavily disrupted by a severe injury he sustained in the 2-1 victory at Chesham in October, early in Hinshelwood’s reign.

The Worthing youngster ruptured his hamstring while stretching for the ball resulting in a gruelling five-month period of rest, recuperation and rehabilitation. However, his determination and endeavour helped him return to fitness ahead of schedule, which allowed him to contribute to the crucial final matches of the season.

Alongside his blistering pace and natural athleticism, Smith’s versatility is a huge asset to Hinshelwood and his coaching staff. Last term, the former Brighton & Hove Albion academy prospect was deployed in a variety of positions, including across the front three and even occasionally at wing-back.

Hinshelwood said: “Bailey extends his stay with the club and we are delighted. He has worked so hard this season to come back from a major injury and shown an elite mindset to his rehabilitation.

"We’re excited to see Bailey with us in pre-season – he is a great lad with a good personality in the changing room.”

Smith said: “I’m really excited to commit to the club for the future. Last season was frustrating with my injury, but i worked hard to get back fit and the club were brilliant with me throughout. After achieving promotion together, I’m pleased to continue here and hopefully repay the faith shown in me this season.”

Joe Cook, Sam Packham and Taylor Seymour have also been in negotiation over new deals, while George Cox, Harry Ransom, Joel Colbran, Matt Burgess, Oliver Godziemski, Teddy Jenks and Wiktor Makowski were already under contract for 26-27 and Brad Dolaghan and Razzaq Coleman De-Graft have had contract extensions triggered.