Boss on full-back's new deal

David Artell is delighted that full-back Rio Adebisi has penned a new deal to take him through to the summer of 2024.

The Academy graduate has in the words of his manager ‘has come on leaps and bounds’ and deserves his new and improved deal following his own consistent performances.

Adebisi, who stepped into Perry Ng’s shoes last season at right-back, has made 14 appearances this season, mainly in his preferred left-back spot. The Croydon-born defender operated at right wing-back again against Wycombe at the weekend, only demonstrating his versatility.

Artell told the club’s official website: “Rio has come on leaps and bounds. That 10,15, 20 games he played at the back end of last season put him in good stead.

“He has gone on to make a good start this season and he is one that has taken his opportunity with both hands.

“Hopefully he can continue to develop and grow and will go on to emulate some of his predecessors that have gone before him.

“Rio is a good player and he has all the attributes to become an excellent player. He is doing more than surviving in the first team. When they are young lads and they first go into the team they try and survive.

“Rio is doing a lot better than surviving. He is being effective in the first team. He is dependable and we don’t have to worry about him. He can score goals and he needs to add them to his game but we are pleased with his progress.

“The new contract is a reward for that progress. It is a few bob in his back pocket and he has the chance to further develop and grow here.”