Workington Reds star turns down higher-league interest to sign new deal

Workington Reds' captain and top scorer Dav Symington has turned down interest from higher divisions to sign up for another season.

The Borough Park club have confirmed that last season's prolific marksman is extending his time with the club.

He has committed to Reds for new boss Mark Fell's first campaign in charge in 2024/25.

It follows an impressive season back in the Northern Premier League Premier Division with the west Cumbrians.

Symington, 30, said he had turned down approaches from other clubs to remain with the Reds.

"I'm over the moon to get a deal sorted," said the ex-Carlisle United man, who has been on the Borough Park books for the last eight years.

"I did have teams interested this summer, I won't lie, but being a local lad from Workington, none of them would have felt like home, so it was a no-brainer to stay."

Symington hit 24 league goals last season for Danny Grainger's team.

His retention is the second major piece of squad news at Workington this week after the permanent signing of former Carlisle midfielder Kai Nugent.

New manager Fell expressed his delight at securing Symington's services.

"His performances over the last few seasons have been exceptional and he leads from the front in terms of his ability," Fell told the Reds website.

"The fact he was approached by many managers from leagues above the NPL this summer not only shows his loyalty to Workington, but also his belief that we can really achieve together this campaign.

"He's a player I'm excited to work with and will be a key to our success this season."

Others from last season's squad are expected to follow Symington in committing to Workington, while Fell remains in pursuit of more signings before the return to pre-season training next month.

The former Lancaster City boss has replaced Grainger after the latter's two years at the helm.