PAUL RUTHERFORD says he has got unfinished business after signing a contract extension and he can’t wait to work with new manager Sam Ricketts.

The midfielder, recruited on a free transfer from Southport in the summer of 2016, has penned a new one year deal at The Racecourse.

Wrexham’s promotion challenge faded badly during the run-in last season but Rutherford did enough over the course of the campaign to convince incoming boss Ricketts that he deserved to be retained.

Rutherford, who contributed with a double figure number of assists, jumped at the chance to extend his stay and trying to win promotion when Wrexham return for an 11th season in the fifth tier remains the objective.

“I played a lot of football last season and feel like I contributed a lot to the side,” said Rutherford.

“I am passionate about being at Wrexham and I was made up with the new contract. It was an easy decision once I knew the club’s intentions.

“It is another year here, I can’t wait to start back. I haven’t achieved what I set out to do when I signed, I want to get promoted here and at least get to the play-offs so hopefully this is the year we can.

“I have still got unfinished business and I love being at the place.”

Rutherford, one of four players offered new deals by former Wales international Ricketts, was disappointed how last season panned out as Wrexham finished 10th after failing to win any of their last seven games.

But having helped set up so many goals, Rutherford was pleased with his performances and believes he has proved the doubters wrong.

“I was happy with my season,” said Rutherford. “A lot of people gave me feedback that they felt I was better than I was the season before and I would go along with that.

“I think I have contributed quite a lot to the team.

“There were probably a few doubters at the beginning of the season, and rightly so, saying I wouldn’t feature so much or maybe I was fortunate to be here.

“But I have always believed in myself and with the better players coming in, I have responded to that.”

Rutherford, who made 43 league appearances, was disappointed with his return of two goals.

“I got myself in great shape last summer, gave myself the best chance I could to go and have a good season,” said Rutherford.

“On paper I was probably third choice winger coming into the season and I have played more games than anybody, and contributed a lot of assists.

“It is just a shame I couldn’t get a couple more goals but between the two, I think I have contributed about 18 or 19 goals to the team and it is a good contribution in my opinion.

“I have been happy with the season but the over-riding feeling is disappointment.”

Rutherford welcomed the appointment of Ricketts, who was Wolves U16s lead coach and has taken up his first management position after penning a three year deal.

“I think it can only be a positive,” added Rutherford. “His career speaks for itself and first impressions were good when I met him. He spoke and looked the part, he has got some good ideas on how to improve the weak areas.”