Hoskins: Signing new deal at Cobblers was 'straightforward decision'

Sam Hoskins says it was a 'pretty straightforward decision' to sign a new two-year contract with the Cobblers and a 'big reason' for that was the support of manager Keith Curle.

Hoskins was one of three players, alongside Vadaine Oliver and Michael Harriman, to be offered a new deal following Town's play-off final win over Exeter City, and the versatile forward has gratefully accepted.

The 27-year-old, who notched 12 goals in 47 appearances during 2019/20, can now look forward to his sixth successive season with the Cobblers and his third in League One.

"I'm very pleased to be staying and I think it shows how much I've enjoyed my time here," said Hoskins. "I wanted to get something sorted and luckily the club offered me another deal.

"I've had ups and downs in my time here but it's now nice to be back in League One and I think we can push on. For me personally, it's really good to stay."

Hoskins is the longest-serving player currently on Northampton's books, and should he see out the full length of his new contract, he'd have been at the club for seven years.

"I don't think many people would have envisaged me staying for so long when I first came on trial here," he admitted. "I've had high points and a few low points but the club is in a really place and everyone has seen the work done by the gaffer and his coaching staff since they've come in.

"That was a massive reason to stay and a big plus. I think we've got the quality and the setup here to push on and do well in League One. I can only see this club going one way and I'm looking forward to it."

Hoskins has played at wing-back, central midfield and up front this season, starting all-but-one league game that he was available for.

"The manager has done a great job here and that's not only for the team but for me personally as well," he added. "I think I've developed as an all-round player because I've played a lot of games and I've played in different positions, and it was also nice to add more goals and assists last season.

"I've been playing with more confidence and the manager is a big reason why I signed on again. He's also staying on so it was a pretty straightforward decision to stay here."