PAUL Hurst says Craig Disley took a pay-cut to stay with Grimsby Town – underlining the skipper's commitment to the cause.
Disley put pen to paper on a new one-year deal at Blundell Park this week, extending his stay until at least summer 2014.
His joint boss has revealed that the terms of the midfielder's new deal means he will take a drop in pay.
And in praising his captain, Hurst admitted that Disley's gesture flies in the face of the common perception of modern-day footballers.
He said: "We're delighted that Craig has signed.
"I'm sure he won't mind me saying this, but in an age where footballers get a bad press and accused of being mercenaries, he's taken a reduced offer to that which he was on.
"That shows his commitment to the club and that he's happy working with us, and vice-versa with us offering him the deal.
"While it is on reduced terms, that isn't a reflection on his performances last season, but more one of where we are at the moment."
After the release of eight out-of-contract members of their squad this month, Hurst and fellow boss Rob Scott had earmarked Disley, pictured, as a key player to tie down.
And now that he is onboard for another season at least, Hurst says he hopes his skipper can replicate this campaign's form.
"Not taking anything away from those that have left the club, but Craig is a huge part of the squad," he continued.
"He was almost an ever-present for us in the last two seasons, wearing the captain's armband and leading by example.
"There are circumstances behind certain decisions that we've made which a lot of people are aware of, but with Craig, we felt it was important to try and keep him at the football club.
"He's now looking forward to leading us on next season and we're delighted to have him on board.
"This season, he stepped up a level and added goals to his game that we didn't know he had in him.
"Hopefully, we'll get the same from him next season."
