JAMES McKeown says it's a case of 'unfinished business' after putting pen to paper on a new two-year deal with Grimsby Town.
The popular goalkeeper ended months of speculation yesterday by turning his back on interest from Football League clubs to commit his future to Town.
The 24-year-old admits that his mistake in the Mariners' play-off exit at Gateshead – coupled with the pain of that defeat – played a key part in his decision.
"The way last season ended for me was awful – I've never felt like that before," McKeown told the Telegraph. "But I've got at least two more cracks at promotion with Grimsby Town now.
"We've obviously come really close the last two years – and this year hurt me more than ever.
"I honestly felt we were going to do it, and the way I played in the second leg was definitely in the back of my mind.
"When I came off that pitch I didn't know if I was going to stay at the club – I felt devastated.
"That would have been a horrific way to walk away, and on the back of that I couldn't leave.
"I owe myself, the fans, the gaffer and the other lads another go."
After three seasons and more than 150 appearances for the Mariners, McKeown admits it's a relief to get his future sorted.
"I've not known what I'd be doing for a few months, and where I might be next season," he said.
"Ultimately, when you've got a family your main concern is that they're happy and secure, so it's a massive relief to know where we're going to be.
"I can't lie, it's been one of the hardest decisions I've had in my life – if not the hardest.
"I would never hide the fact that I want to play as high as possible.
"I had to see whether that was possible and then weigh up what was the right decision for me and my family.
"Ultimately, I kept coming back to the fact that I'm happy here and I'm playing football here."
He added: "There are obviously different levels of interest, but there were a few clubs who were very keen.
"With each of them, I kept coming back to the same conclusion – it was better for me to stay here.
"I want to be a Football League goalkeeper and get as high as I can get, but at the right time – and hopefully with Grimsby Town."
