As manager Gavin Macpherson’s squad begins to take shape, we are very happy to announce that we have retained defenders Joe Payne and James Richmond.
With nine man-of-the-match awards between them last season, both were key cogs in a defensive line which, until the final few fixtures of the season, remained one of the meanest in the division. Left-back Joe led the way with five last year, returning to EN1 last September for another stint at the club after originally joining in March 2019 from Barnet. Nailing down the left-back berth for the remainder of the season, he played a part in ten clean sheets in the league and ended the season with a total of 85 appearances and 5 goals from full-back in a Town shirt.
“Buzzing to have signed for this great club again, it was a no brainer”, said Joe. “Really looking forward to working with Gavin and his team and can’t wait to play in front of the Town fans again. Up the Town!”
“Joe is exactly the kind of player and person I want at this football club”, stated boss Gavin Macpherson. “Joe’s positivity shines through and it’s clear that he’s an excellent defender to match his personality. I’m delighted Joe has once again committed to the club and I look forward to working with him.”
Richmond Returns
Central defender ‘Jimbo’ was another mainstay at the back for the Town last term, joining during the 2022-23 off-season having been skipper at Merstham for the last three seasons. He notched 2 goals and 8 league clean sheets in 34 appearances last season and was pleased to commit to the club for the coming season: “I’m delighted on re-signing for Enfield. I really enjoyed my first season with the club and it was a no-brainer after speaking to the new gaffer and his plans for next season”, said James. “I can’t wait to get going and I’m looking forward to meeting the new signings and management staff.”
“I’m really happy to be finally working with James. He is a player I’ve admired and tried to sign before; I was unsuccessful which was Enfield’s gain”, added Gavin. “James is pivotal to what we want to achieve this season and it goes without saying I’m so pleased he’s back with us.”