Richard Butcher has told of his delight at once again linking up with Macc boss Gary Simpson, after he signed a deal to return to the Moss Rose.
The experienced midfielder was disappointed to have his stay cut short last season when Lincoln City boss Chris Sutton recalled him eight games and two goals into his loan spell with long-term manager Keith Alexander, and of course Simpson.
And, while he was out of favour with the Sincil Bank boss, Butcher felt Sutton was pressurised into bringing him back, in order to appease disgruntled Imps fans who felt one of their players shouldn’t help out fellow League Two strugglers.
"Lincoln were at the wrong end of the table towards the end of the season," said the 29-year-old after signing a two-year deal at Macc. "And many people didn’t want me to help another team.
"I didn’t play a lot last year, which was really frustrating, as I still think I’m in my prime, I hadn’t even played a reserve game in months."
Now, Butcher is hoping a good pre-season could set up his new club for what many would view as surprise success this season.
"It was an easy decision to come back," he added. "I know the manager well, there’s a great team spirit and they’re a great set of lads who want to work hard and do well.
"I’m looking forward to a good pre-season and starting the year on an even keel.
"With a good pre-season we can do well, there’s a lot of talent in the squad."
PRESTON North End and Derby are still vying as they try to tempt John Rooney away from Macc. Rooney is the only member of the Silkmen squad still with a contract offer.
