Scott Chaplin taking aim at promotion with Stowmarket Town

Scott Chaplin, left, has signed for Stowmarket Town. Picture: STAN BASTON (Image: Archant)

The 29-year-old midfielder was recently unveiled as Stow’s fourth new summer signing, joining from Felixstowe & Walton United, and is back at the club where he played as a youngster more than 20 years ago.

“I’ve lived in Stowmarket pretty much all of my life,” he said. “It’s my home club and I’ve come back to where I started as a seven or eight-year-old.

“It’s good to come back. I was impressed when I played against Stow last season, how they kept the ball and attacked, which I think suits my style of play. I’m looking forward to getting into the games.”

Chaplin, who had spells at Bury Town, Needham Market and Hadleigh United, before joining Felixstowe two years ago, sees similarities between the Seasiders and Stow.

“I think Stow and Felixstowe are very similar,” he said. “When I joined Felixstowe they were on the up and trying to improve things at the ground, like Stow are doing.

“I see very good comparisons between the two. I was happy to help Felixstowe get promoted and my aim is to help Stow get promoted and try and win the league.

“That’s why I’ve come to Stowmarket, to win the league. I won it with Hadleigh (in 2014) and that’s what I want to do again.”

Stow boss Rick Andrews added: “We approached Scott halfway through last season about joining up. At that time Felixstowe were top of the league and chasing the title, so it was always going to be a tough decision for him.

“We agreed to leave the door open and speak in the summer, which has led to this announcement.

“In my opinion, he fits into the squad perfectly both on and off the pitch. He has won the league with Hadleigh and obviously gained promotion last season with Felixstowe.

“He can play in a variety of positions, which I like as I want to continue the flexibility we have within the squad. I’m looking forward to working with him next season.”