Words: Michael Flynn
Image: Ray Gardner/Redlands United FC

Redlands United captain James Donnelly has re-signed for the 2015 season, along with star attacker Nico Bechar and young defender Kai Halliday.

The returning trio takes Red Devil’s announced signings to seven for next year’s PlayStation 4 NPL Queensland campaign - with more announcements expected in coming weeks.

Redlands coach Matt Chandler confirmed the signings as he continues to shape his squad for next season.

Chandler also confirmed former English Schoolboys representative Donnelly, 25, will again wear the captain’s armband this season after assuming the role from Cameron Draper midway through 2014.

Donnelly, a central defender who made 16 appearances for the club last season, said he enjoyed the added responsibility that comes with captaincy.

“It’s a privilege to be the captain. I like leading and hopefully I can take the pressure off the younger guys’ shoulders and give them someone to look to for advice,” Donnelly explained.

“I really enjoy being around the club and chatting to the younger players and making sure there is a good link between the first team and the younger guys at the club.”

He highlighted fellow re-signing and defensive partner Halliday, 19, as player with a bright future at the club.

“He’s a really solid player. I get along really well with Kai and it’s important the central defenders to have a good relationship to have a solid defence.”

“He has worked really hard and improved a lot and is a great example to everyone of what hard work can achieve,” he added.

Donnelly also explained that securing the services of Bechar, who is spending the summer playing for Team Wellington in New Zealand’s ASB Premiership, will prove beneficial for both the club’s attack and defence.

“He’s a class player and important for us because he scores lots of goals and as well as sets up lots of goals,” he said of the Frenchman.

“Also marking him in training means that you are going to get better as a defender because it means you are coming up against one of the best three times a week.”

Donnelly added, “It also shows the younger guys what sort of standard they need to be at if they want to play in this league.”

Redlands finished the 2014 season in fifth place and Donnelly said everyone at the club was keen to secure a maiden PlayStation 4 NPL Queensland Finals appearance next year.

“We’re eager to get off to a really good start and better our finish from last season,” he said.