Lambton, who has worn the number one shirt for the past three seasons, has become an integral part of Emley’s defensive setup, helping to establish them as one of the most solid sides in the Northern Premier League East Division.

After a strong campaign that saw the club reach the play-offs, only to suffer a narrow defeat to Dunston. Dec’s commitment to stay is a clear signal of the club’s ambitions moving forward.

Speaking after signing his new contract, Lambton expressed his delight at continuing his journey with the Pewits.

"Yeah, I was absolutely delighted to sign a new deal," he said. "There was never any question about me wanting to leave, soon as the club offered it, I was ready to put pen to paper. I’m really happy to be staying and to keep pushing on with the lads next season."

Lambton’s story is one of perseverance and steady progress through the non-league ranks. Having come through the youth system at Bradford City before spells with Guiseley, Campion and Albion Sports, the 25-year-old stopper has found a home at the Fantastic Media Welfare Ground.

"This will be my fourth season at Emley, and honestly, I’ve loved every minute of it," he reflected. "It’s a proper club, full of good people. From the chairman all the way through to the volunteers, everyone here works hard and cares deeply about what we’re trying to achieve."

His connection to the club runs deep, not just professionally, but emotionally too. He credits the togetherness and environment at Emley as key reasons behind his decision to stay.

"There’s just a real togetherness here. We’ve got a brilliant group of lads and the atmosphere around the place is spot on. The club looks after us well, and there’s ambition too, you can feel that. For me, there’s been no reason to look elsewhere."

That ambition was reflected in last season’s strong showing. Emley finished in a play-off position in their first year back at step four of the non-league system. Though disappointment followed in the semi-final loss to Dunston, Lambton believes the experience has set the tone for what the club can achieve.

"If someone had told us at the start that we’d finish in the play-offs, we’d have snapped their hand off," he said. "It was our first season back at that level, and to be right in the mix was a massive achievement."

Lambton was a model of consistency despite a frustrating injury that saw him miss a handful of games.

"I picked up a tear in my thigh and tried to play through it for a couple of months, but eventually I had to rest," he admitted. "I only missed around six games in the end, and when I came back, I felt like I slotted back in well and made an impact."

Known for his calm presence and ability with the ball at his feet, Lambton sees himself as a modern keeper.

"I’m confident with the ball at my feet, I can play out from the back when needed, but I’ve also got a big kick if we need to go long. With the way we play and how solid we are defensively, I don’t have loads of saves to make every game, but it’s about being switched on and making the big ones count when they come."

He was quick to praise the defence in front of him for their efforts throughout the campaign.

"The lads in front of me have been top-class, Ross, Jack, and the whole backline really. We work hard as a unit, and I’ve got massive confidence in them. There were games in that first half of the season where it felt like we were unbeatable, just not conceding at all."

Looking ahead, Lambton believes Emley can go one step further next season.

"I think we’ve got everything we need to push for the play-offs again. With a couple of new faces and a bit of luck with injuries, I believe we can be right up there. There’s ambition here, and we all want to take that next step."

He also reserved special praise for the supporters, whose dedication home and away has made a lasting impression.

"The fans have been unbelievable. Whether it’s home games with big crowds or long midweek trips away, they’re always there, backing us. That support means a lot to the players. Hopefully we can give them something special next season."

With Lambton signed on for another campaign, Emley AFC have retained not only a talented shot-stopper but a player whose belief in the club mirrors the growing momentum surrounding it.

Declan has already been sponsored for the new season.

#UTP #Emley