08 Aug 2025
Zane Banton will be the club captain in the season ahead and the Saints stalwart says he’s ready for the challenge of his new role.
“I’ve no problem with the responsibility of being one of the leaders in the team – that comes with age and experience. I’ve not been the sort of person to seek the captain’s armband but it’s a role I’ll enjoy.”
The attacking midfielder, who has long been a favourite with supporters, said: “I’ve a special affiliation with this club so it’d mean the utmost to me if we could go straight back up.
“You realise how much the club means to the fans and you do want to give your all every time you step on the pitch. I’m glad to say I’ve got a good relationship with the fans and long may it continue.”
Banton is the last remaining member of the current Saints squad who played in the 2021 FA Cup 1st round game against Forest Green Rovers, scoring one of the goals in a 3-2 victory that was shown live on BBC TV.
Saints’ assistant manager Paul Bastock revealed: “Keeping Zane here this season was a huge signing for us because other clubs, bigger fish, wanted him.
“Zane has stepped up to the plate and deserves the captaincy. He lives and breathes this football club and that’s what you want in your leaders.
“He’s an unbelievable player and when we can get him on the ball in the pockets, he makes things happen.”
Veteran campaigner Michael Bostwick, a signing from Boston United, will be another leader in the Saints team and had this promise for supporters: “I will give 100 per cent and do what I can to win football matches.
“It’s natural that I try and help the younger players on and off the pitch as much as I can… but as long as we all pull together and go in the right direction, we’ll have a good season.”
The defender added: “The fans are massive to any football team. If we can get them behind the team and supporting the team every week, it’ll be massive for us and help us achieve our goals.”
Forward Jasper Mather said he was “super happy” to be wearing St Albans City colours this season: “This is a massive club with a huge fan base and a great history. When I found out they were interested in me I couldn’t wait to join.
“For me, St Albans City shouldn’t be in this division, they should be, minimum, the next level up. That drew me – the club is ambitious and desperate to get back to that level. And I really wanted to be a part of that.”
Interviews with Zane, Michael, Jasper and other St Albans players are available in full at the St Albans City FC website and through the club’s social media channels. See www.stalbanscityfc.com
