STALWART Scott Arnold revealed that ending his Magpies career with relegation was “never an option.”

Captain Arnold could not help his side avoid the drop last term, as Wimborne finished bottom of the Southern Premier League South.

Rather than retire, the 37-year-old will return for his 11th consecutive season with the Magpies, with the aim of an instant return to the seventh tier.

Now in his second spell with Wimborne, the former Cherries youngster has made well over 550 appearances for the Magpies.

He told the club’s website: “Finishing on a relegation was never an option for me.

“I’ve still got a lot to give on and off the pitch.

“(I’m) so pleased to be given the opportunity to put last season’s wrongs right, and get back to winning games and giving the fans the happiness they deserve.

“It’s not going to be easy but we’ve signed some great players, that I’m looking forward to playing with.

“We’ll see where we end up come the end of the season.”

Manager James Stokoe, who played alongside Arnold for many years, stated: “I’m so glad we’ve managed to keep Arnie for this season.

"He’s so influential within the squad and so well respected within the club.

"He’s still got something to offer on the pitch as well and his experience will help guide the team this year.”