JAMES McKeown says Grimsby Town's supporters were pivotal in keeping him at the club.
As reported, the goalkeeper turned down a host of enquiries from Football League clubs to pen a new two-year deal at Blundell Park.
"I can't emphasise enough how great the fans have been to me since I've been here," 'Macca' told the Telegraph.
"My mistake against Gateshead in the play-offs was there for everyone to see, but there hasn't been one fan criticise me for that.
"I'm sure there are people who think 'what was he doing?' But the fans came over after the game, put their arms around me and told me I had to stay at the club.
"You build up a rapport with people, and hopefully they can see how much this club means to me.
"That makes my job easier because people believe in you. No matter how mentally tough you are – or think you are – you sometimes need that backing."
