INTERVIEW: Let’s go and achieve promotion

After agreeing a two-year deal, we spoke to defender Aaron Hayden.

When asked how it sounds to be back at United, he said: “It sounds amazing man, excited to be back.

“I was here before as everyone knows and it feels familiar, it feels like home. I’m so excited to be back.

“It’s been in the pipeline, but we’ve finally got it over the line now and I’m so excited. 

“The club’s in a new phase now with new owners and a new ambition, you know, I’ve come here to help the club achieve their goals.

“I love this place, I’ve got history here as everyone knows.

“I’ve spoken to the gaffer so I’m really happy to be here and looking forward to the season to get started.”

Speaking on his style of play, Aaron said: “I’m aggressive, quick, strong, I’m a threat in both boxes and a very passionate player. I like to lead and organise - I’ll always give my all, I’m back, but I’m better now.”

Despite being a defender, Hayden has a fine record at the opposite end of the pitch.

“I like to chip in down the other end, but mainly it's about keeping clean sheets and making sure we’re solid, that’s how you build a good season, off the back of clean sheets.”

When asked if he’s looking to replicate last season’s promotion to League One with Wrexham, with us next term, he stated: “I mean, there’s no point in competing if you aren’t trying to get promotion out of the league you’re in. That’s one hundred percent the goal and full focus is towards that. 

“I’ve got a full pre-season here now to get myself ready, integrate myself with the lads and that’s what it's about.”

Hayden added the following when speaking about his aims for 2024/25: “I like to keep my personal targets to myself, but the most important thing is the collective targets. I’m here to achieve the collective targets first and if I can do my own personal ones, then that would be good.”

During his previous spell at Brunton Park, the centre-back was named vice-captain and will be looking to add his leadership qualities to the group once again.

“I’ll always lead, it doesn’t matter who has the armband. I’ll always be leading and I’m sure there will be other leaders in the changing room.

“To do well in a team you need multiple leaders on the pitch and around the squad and as long as we have that, we’ll be alright.”

Finally, Aaron had the following message for supporters.

“I’m back and I’m better, let’s go and achieve promotion this year. 

“We need everyone behind us this year - let’s do it!”

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