Midfielder Tom Lapslie reveals why he decided to stay at Torquay United

Tom Lapslie, Torquay United's popular midfielder, says the club's announcement that they're remaining full-time in the National League South next season was a major factor in his own decision to stay at Plainmoor.

The former Colchester United stalwart also believes that modern football could do with a bit more loyalty.

Lapslie, 27, was one of five players to commit to new deals last week, including goalkeeper Mark Halstead, fellow midfielder Kevin Dawson, defender Ollie Tomlinson and winger Jack Stobbs, who finished last season on loan from Oldham Athletic.

They joined eight senior pros already under contract, and manager Gary Johnson and his backroom staff are now trying to bring in several new faces to top up the squad.

"If the club had gone part-time, I think quite a few of the lads would have had to reconsider, me included," said Lapslie, who's scored seven goals in 72 appearances over the last two years.

"But once they said they were staying full-time, it became a much more attractive proposition.

"I have enjoyed my time here, despite the disappointing season we've just had, and the fans have been class to me.

"As soon as the gaffer and Downesy (assistant Aaron Downes) were staying, and they said they wanted me to stay as well, I didn't need much convincing.

"I just needed to run it past my family (in London) first, but now I'm over the moon it's all settled.

"Maybe I'm a bit old-fashioned for being loyal," added Lapslie, who was with Colchester for ten years before joining Torquay, "but there isn't enough loyalty in football these days.

"I think we're starting from a very good place, with a good core group of players already here, and everyone knows what the aim is next season."

Last weekend's Play-Offs saw Notts County join champions Wrexham back in the EFL after a nerve-shredding penalty shoot-out win over Chesterfield at Wembley, with Kidderminster Harriers and Oxford City moving up after victories over Brackley Town and St Albans City in the North and South Finals.

Meanwhile, there's still uncertainty over the future of Southend United, who face a second winding-up order in three months today (Wed).

The NL Board is under pressure to take action over the Shrimpers, which may or may not involve Torquay, whatever the outcome in court.