'It's a great club to be at' – Johnny Goddard takes up full-time football with Boreham Wood

Johnny Goddard has decided to depart Slough Town and join Boreham Wood on a full-time basis, the midfielder ending a two-year stay at Arbour Park.

Goddard signed for the Rebels from St Albans City in 2022 and found the back of the net six times in 44 appearances during his debut season.

This term, the 30-year-old was much more prolific, scoring 19 goals in 52 outings earning him the club’s golden boot award and an England C cap earlier this month.

He was also awarded the National League South Player of the Month award in November having bagged four goals in six matches.

Speaking on his arrival at Meadow Park, Goddard said to the Wood’s YouTube channel: “It’s a great club to be at. I can already see there are great people looking to do the right things and push the club forward.

“Everyone has been really welcoming. [I’m getting] lots of positive feelings from people, there’s been lots of positive conversations about having a successful season. It is a big season for the club, and I am really looking forward to it.”

Boreham Wood finished 21st in the National League in the 2023/24 season, thus succumbing to relegation to the National League South alongside Kidderminster Harriers, Dorking Wanderers, and Oxford City.

Earlier this month, the Wood announced the appointment of Ross Jenkins as their new head coach, following the expiration of his contract with Oxford City, and the return of club legend Mark Ricketts who has become first-team assistant manager following his recent decision to hang up his boots.

Goddard played alongside Ricketts at Woking earlier in his career.

“I have spoken to Ross before having played against Oxford City in the past,” said the midfielder before adding: “I am fully aware of the style of football he likes to play – Oxford were always a tough team to face.

“I’m sure he’s got big plans for this club so it’s an exciting time. It’s an exciting project and team to be a part of.

“I don’t think I need to tell anyone at Boreham Wood about Ricko. He’s a legend here, you can see that when you come into the ground, and he’s achieved so much.

“I’m excited to work with him again. I am sure he will bring a lot to his new role. He’s a great person, he has a lot of experience and football knowledge. It’s been a long time since I worked with him last, but he wouldn’t have changed much.”

Slough Town player-manager Scott Davies will now be tasked with finding someone of equal, or better, standard to Goddard in the transfer market.