Key man extends Hastings United deal

The club have announced a contract extension for Tom Chalmers, a product of their academy set up and now a first team regular - who has signed a one-year extension.

It comes after United snapped up former Haywards Heath winger Gil Carvalho last week.

Chalmers, who has played for England Colleges, said: “I am really happy to be here for another year and enjoyed every minute of last season. We all preached about getting what we deserved last year and we got it done so looking forward to a big season ahead and a step up.”

Boss Gary Elphick said: “It’s great to know that the club have activated Tom’s option. He has been extremely consistent since I’ve taken over and as we all know he can cover a few different positions on the pitch. I look forward to once again working alongside him and seeing his game improve.”

Chairman and CEO Billy Wood added: “Tom is an important member of the team, and we are delighted to have him continue his growth at The ‘U’s. He is an exceptional talent who has adjusted to his positional change with aplomb, and I am excited to see him take the step up with us to the Isthmian Premier. A local lad who shows the kids in our academy that the pathway to our first team is strong and gives them something to strive towards, a real role model.”

Hear more from Billy Wood in this week's Hastings Observer - out on Friday