FOREST Green goalkeeper Sam Russell has signed a new one-year contract that extends his stay at The New Lawn until the end of the 2014-15 season.

The 31-year-old Middlesbrough born stopped was signed by former boss David Hockaday in January 2012 and signed a two-and-a-half year contract ahead of the imminent demise of former employers Darlington. Russell instantly proved his goalkeeping credentials by saving four consecutive penalty kicks in his first eight appearances in a Rovers shirt.

Beginning his career at Middlesbrough, Russell had three spells with Darlington and also played for Football League clubs Scunthorpe United and Rochdale, and in the non-league game with Wrexham and Gateshead. He was a part of Darlington’s successful FA Trophy winning squad at Wembley in 2011.

Russell hasn't missed a league match since arriving at The New Lawn and made his 100th league appearance for the club in a 2-1 win over Grimsby Town last month.