It is a big year for Andy Booth. As he enters the last year of his contract, the 32-year-old striker is also celebrating his testimonial year, which kicked off with a game against Spanish side Real Sociedad. After the goalless draw in front of almost 8,000 fans, Town boss Peter Jackson paid tribute to the club's loyal servant, saying: "Andy Booth has been a legend. He had left for Sheffield Wednesday during my first spell in charge but since I have been back at the club he has been outstanding." Givemefootball's Lawrie Madden caught up with Andy after the game.
Q:HOW DID THE OCCASION GO?
A:It was a very good start to the testimonial. The fans were brilliant and although it is the holiday season over 7,000 fans turned up. It was a cracking night and sets the testimonial year up nicely.
Q:WHAT OTHER EVENTS HAVE YOU GOT PLANNED?
A:I have a golf day in September, a dinner in October, a summer ball, a charity cricket match and lots of other events coming up over the year. It will be a busy time for me on this front but the football comes first and I have a very good committee who have worked tirelessly for me.
Q:HOW HAS PRE-SEASON GONE?
A:It has been hard, very hard with two sessions a day most weeks. I find pre-season difficult but even though you moan it's vitally important because you get fitter and you are glad when you have done it.
Q:HAVE YOU OVERCOME THE DISAPPOINTMENT OF LAST SEASON?
A:We were very disappointed. We all know how close we came but we have to forget about it even though we know how much it hurt. Looking back at last season we had a great chance of promotion. We had a great run up until Christmas and then couldn't get another run going. We need to be more consistent this time around.
Q:HAS THE SQUAD CHANGED MUCH DURING THE SUMMER?
A:No, not really. We have added Luke Beckett up front and goalkeeper Matt Glennoe. They are two good additions to the squad. We went to Ibiza on tour and it brought the lads together. We have a good squad from last year and a very good team spirit but there will be a lot of teams in the same boat so we know it will be hard.
Q:WHO DO YOU FANCY TO DO WELL IN THIS DIVISION?
A:Crewe. They try and play and are difficult to beat. I think Millwall and Brighton will do well as they have been at this level before and know this division well.
Q:WHAT ABOUT YOUR AIMS THIS SEASON?
A:Well, I played nearly 40 games last season and scored 15 goals. I don't set targets but it is always nice to be playing week in, week out - especially as it is my testimonial year and my contract runs out next summer.
