BRYAN HUGHES described Rob Lainton's decision to commit his future to Wrexham as "massive" and says supporters played their part in the goalkeeper signing a new deal.

The 29-year-old enjoyed a hugely successful 2018-19 campaign, keeping 25 of the Reds' club record equalling 26 clean sheets.

That form earned Lainton the Player of the Season award but also led to speculation that other club's were interested in signing the stopper, who was initially brought in on loan from Port Vale last summer before Wrexham took over his contract in November.

However, Lainton has put pen to paper on a new two-year contract and Hughes admits it a significant signing ahead of the Reds' 12th season in non-league.

"It is a massive signing for the club," said Hughes.

"I have been working with Rob and his representatives for numerous weeks. It just didn't happen overnight, it took a while.

"Rob had a fantastic season and I identified him as being one of our key players that I wanted to keep and build for the future with so I am absolutely delighted that he has signed a contract.

"He had a lot of admirers and, rightly so, he took a bit of time to think about his options but I am delighted that he has come to the conclusion that we are the best option going forward for him."

Lainton, who scooped five awards from supporters groups, has become a big fans’ favourite and Hughes feels their backing helped him decide that there was no need to move on.

"He has enjoyed his time at the club, he has been great for us and set a record for clean sheets but the biggest thing from our point of view is he has been accepted by the fans," said Hughes.

"Rob got all the awards at the presentation and that was one of the big factors in getting him over the line.

"I have mentioned before how big the fans are at our club and I know that was a big factor in Rob's decision."

James Jennings has followed Lainton's lead and also taken up the offer of a new contract, with the left-back signing a one year deal.

Hughes gave Jennings extra time to consider his future due to a family bereavement and is delighted he is staying, with the 31-year-old impressing his manager last season with the defensive side of his game and when attacking down the left flank.

"James has had a good season again and he had no aspirations to leave," added Hughes.

"It took a little bit longer to get James done because of his situation but I am absolutely delighted that James is on board.

"He fits into the style that I want to play. He is good defensively and helped us keep all those clean sheets but he has also got the attributes that I like of being on the front foot going forward as well."