SWINDON Town have announced defender Mathieu Baudry has signed a one-year contract extension with the club.

The 34-year-old arrived under Richie Wellens back in 2019 and has gone on to play 63 times for the club in all competitions, scoring two goals.

Baudry struggled with injuries last season and made just 17 appearances, but enjoyed a fine renaissance towards the end of the campaign after suggesting he would likely retire in order to spend more time with his family.

Going on to score his first goal for Town in front of fans in the 3-0 away success at Hartlepool United, Baudry was a key figure in the heart of defence as Ben Garner's men romped into the play-offs before missing out on a spot at Wembley.

Speaking to Town's media team, the charismatic Frenchman explained his decision to postpone retirement for at least one more campaign.

He said: “I’m delighted to be staying at this great club for another season, and Scott (Lindsey) stepping up as head coach made my decision a lot easier.

"I’ve loved working with him during my time here, and many won’t realise just how much of an important role he played in us reaching the play-offs last season.

“Having that continuity with Scott in charge is vital. I’m really excited to go again and want to do things right, and hope I can help take this club back to where it belongs.”

Meanwhile, Town's technical director, Sandro Di Michele, said: “Mathieu is a key figure at this football club and I’m incredibly excited he’s chosen to continue his journey with us for another season. It was really important for everyone at the club he stayed to help drive us forward.”

News of Baudry's return will give Swindon's newly-appointed head coach a significant boost with pre-season just around the corner.

Head coach Scott Lindsey has already made it clear he wishes to continue with a younger squad next season but was delighted to see such a reliable and experienced centre-back commit his immediate future to Swindon.

Lindsey said: “I’m delighted Mathieu has agreed to stay with us for another year and he’ll play an integral part in what we are trying to achieve here.

“The personality, passion and experience he brings to the dressing room and out on the pitch is invaluable.

“He also has great leadership qualities too, so it was really important we did all we could keep him here.”