Pond says only Manchester City could lure him away from Fleetwood

Fleetwood Town’s record breaking captain Nathan Pond says only Manchester City could lure him away from Highbury as he penned a new one year deal at the club.

Pond joined the club from Lancaster City in 2003 and has been at the heart of the side as the club has risen from non-league to League One.

Now he is preparing for his 14th season after breaking Jack Ainscough’s 421 club appearance record last term at Walsall.

The 31-year-old centre-half who was hindered by ankle and thigh injuries last term recovered in time to help lead Town’s successful survival bid.

He said: “I’m delighted to sign for Fleetwood Town once again. It has been a big part of my life, we have shared the journey together and I’m delighted to sign on.

“It would take a lot for me to leave Fleetwood Town, it would take Manchester City or someone like that (to make me leave).

“I was only part time when I first came, there is a fantastic training ground now (the £8.5m Poolfoot Farm training complex) - the club has definitely changed for the better.”

Pond ended the season partnering Stephen Jordan in the centre of defence.

Jordan, 34, was released by the club on Thursday and boss Steven Pressley has brought in two new central defenders Cian Bolger and Ashley Eastham.

Pond says he welcomes the new signings but says he is determined to extend his appearance record.

He said: “I didn’t really want to mention (the record) at the time because of the situation we were in (a relegation battle). I’ve reflected on that, it is a great achievement and I am hoping to extended that a lot more this season.

“I welcome them both (Bolger and Eastham) if it is going to make the squad better.

“I’m looking forward to meeting them both.”

Pressley said he is delighted that Pond has signed a new deal.

He said: “He’s a great professional who has a winning mentality and he’s a really good leader. We’re delighted to retain his services.”

Town midfielder Jack Sowerby has also signed a new one year deal.