Speaking after signing a new contract at the club, Ched Evans said there could be “big, exciting times ahead” at Preston North End.
The 34-year-old striker, whose deal was set to expire in the summer, has penned a new contract which will see him stay at Deepdale until 2024.
Having been at the club for two years, Ched feels things are going in the right direction, and that upwards trajectory played a part in his decision to extend his stay.
He said: “I’m over the moon; to get the extra year is amazing.
“I think the next 18 months at Preston could be really positive. If you look at where we are in the league as well, it looks like there could be big, exciting times ahead for Preston.
“I’m happy here, really happy. I’m friends with all the lads, I get on with everybody, so it was an easy decision.
“I feel good, I feel strong at the moment and it’s probably the best position I’ve been in for the past few years and I’m just really pleased with how it’s going.”
Ched has been in great form in recent months, having scored six goals in his last seven Championship matches.
Goals aren’t all he brings to the table, though, with his passion and energy also a major part of his game, and that’s certainly something the fans appreciate.
“Every player wants to be liked,” added Ched. “For me, if I keep putting in the performances I’m putting in and scoring the goals I do, everybody’s going to be happy.
“For us, the main objective is to win and, like I’ve said before, the three points for Preston is the ultimate goal on a Saturday.
“It’s really nice and humbling to be accepted into the club.”
Prior to this season, Ched’s time with the club had been disrupted somewhat by injuries, with plantar fasciitis, among other niggles, keeping him sidelined for several months of the 2021/22 campaign.
He’s been readily available for games so far this term, though, and he’s enjoyed a good run in the side in recent weeks, prior to last weekend’s FA Cup victory over Huddersfield Town, which he missed due to a tight muscle.
Ched said: “It’s getting that bit of confidence, that momentum and taking the chances you’re getting which has been important.
“I think getting up to speed in regards to fitness was important for me and getting the 90 minutes in each game has been really important for me to kick on really.
“But I feel good, I feel strong at the moment and it’s probably the best position I’ve been in for the past few years, and I’m just really pleased with how it’s going.”