Boston United in talks to extend Brad Abbott contract as midfielder prepares for 100th appearance

Manager Elliott praises 'fighter'...
Brad Abbott. Photo: Eric BrownBrad Abbott. Photo: Eric Brown
Brad Abbott. Photo: Eric Brown

Craig Elliott has revealed he is in talks to extend ‘fighter’ Brad Abbott’s Boston United contract - as the midfielder prepares to make his 100th appearance for the club.

The 25-year-old looks set to reach treble figures as the Pilgrims host AFC Telford United on Saturday (KO 3pm).

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And manager Elliott is keen to keep the player at the club after extending the contracts of Tom Platt and Peter Crook last week.

“We’ve been having discussions and I’m hoping he will stay. He enjoys playing for Boston and he gets what it means,” Elliott said.

“I like having players like Brad and Jay (Rollins) who are part of the furniture now.

“He doesn’t miss training and rarely misses a game.

“He always gives 110 per cent and wants to win. He epitomises the type of player I like to work with, he gives everything.

Abbott in action this season. Photo: Eric BrownAbbott in action this season. Photo: Eric Brown
Abbott in action this season. Photo: Eric Brown
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“I also think he’s improved during the time he’s been here and I hope he can continue to do that if he’s here next season. Fingers crossed he is.”

United paid Buxton an undisclosed fee for Abbott in December 2017, scoring 13 times in those 99 appearances to date.

Barnsley youth product Abbott has only missed five matches since making the move to Boston.

“It’s very rare you get to 100 appearances these days,” Elliott added.

Abbott celebrates with Luke Shiels. Photo: Eric BrownAbbott celebrates with Luke Shiels. Photo: Eric Brown
Abbott celebrates with Luke Shiels. Photo: Eric Brown
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“A lot of players are mercenaries and don’t stay long before moving on, so Brad deserves a lot of credit.”

Things haven’t always gone smoothly for Abbott, with the midfielder on the receiving end of stick from parts of the crowd during the previous campaign as United failed to rediscover their early season form.

Elliott, however, believes coming through that experience has only made the midfielder go up in his estimation.

“Players at Boston have to come through that sometimes. Sometimes you’ll get a bit of stick at a club this size,” the manager continued.

Brad Abbott during his first season with United. Photo: Eric BrownBrad Abbott during his first season with United. Photo: Eric Brown
Brad Abbott during his first season with United. Photo: Eric Brown
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“Some players don’t respond to those pressures and leave, but Brad’s the opposite.

“He kept fighting, doing his job and I think he’s getting his rewards now. I admire him for that.”

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