Boothroyd confident O’Donovan can hit 20-goal mark for Cobblers

The Irish forward committed to a two-year contract at the club this week, and will begin pre-season training with the squad on Monday.

O’Donovan become a key player for Town after joining from Coventry City in January, starting 18 games and scoring six goals, one of which was the vital winner in the play-off semi-final first-leg win over Cheltenham.

It was form that led to five other clubs making offers to the player - three from league one and two in league two - who has remained loyal to Boothroyd.

“I don’t think there’s much loyalty in football any more but there is with Roy,” said Boothroyd.

“He trusts me and I trust him and I know what I’m going to get out of him. One of the things I thought we lacked last year before he arrived was closing people down.

“The goal he scored against Accrington last season summed him up for me; when you’ve got that attitude and that willingness to run it really makes you difference.

“He’s 27 and he’s got a point to prove. He’s effectively had two seasons out of the game where he hasn’t really played at all and I think that’s given him a real hunger.

“I think he’s a terrific signing and someone who can go and get 20 goals for us.”

Despite such beliefs, though, Boothroyd admits he would like to sign at least one more attacking player.

O’Donovan’s retention means there are still only three fit front men on the books, Clive Platt and first-year professional David Moyo.

Alex Nicholls is not expected to be available for selection until the tail end of 2013 as he recovers from a broken leg, and club captain Kelvin Langmead can fill in up front as an emergency.

But Boothroyd acknowledges another signing needs to be made in that department.

“I still think we need to get another one in but I’d like it to be someone who can play in a variety of positions and who can play in a front two or a three,” he said.

“So we’ll be looking to bring somebody else in as well.”