We’re thrilled to announce that the club has activated the option in Rick Smith’s contract, keeping the centre back at the Neuven Stadium until the end of the 2025/26 campaign.

The 31-year-old, who is currently in his third spell with the club, has made the most appearances of anyone in the current Radcliffe squad with 291 to his name, and is eighth on the all-time list. Smith’s debut in a Boro shirt came all the way back in August 2014, as he lined up against Ramsbottom United over 10 years ago.

His first spell with the side lasted two seasons between 2014 and 2016 before he departed for Ashton United, later returning to the Boro in March 2018 and remained part of the squad until June 2020, having achieved promotion to the Northern Premier League Premier Division via the play-off final.

In July 2022, it was announced that the fan favourite had returned to Radcliffe from Warrington Rylands, to the delight of the Boro faithful. Since returning to the Neuven Stadium, Smith has established himself as a permanent fixture in the starting eleven and has formed a formidable partnership with fellow centre back, Olly Thornley.

In his current spell with the club, Smith was a key member of the title-winning squad having helped to guide Radcliffe to the National League North as Champions, and also picked up the Manchester Premier Cup the season prior with a 3-0 victory over Wythenshawe Town in the final at Broadhurst Park.

He has predominantly played in his natural position amongst the back line throughout his time at M26, but has also featured in both the midfield and attack on rare occasions, and has even made an appearance between the goalposts when Radcliffe were reduced to 10 men against Marske United in the 2022/23 campaign, asserting his desire to do whatever it takes to create success in a Boro shirt.

When recently speaking to the media, Rick explained his happiness to stay with Radcliffe.

Smith, said: ‘I’m absolutely delighted to be staying at the club for another year. Radcliffe is a special club to me and it’s amazing how far we have come in my time here! Next season is where we right the wrongs from last season and really give a proper account for ourselves, pushing for the play-offs as a minimum. The group we have here is unbelievable and we have so much more to give, up the Boro!’