DAVID HODGSON last night revealed how a heart-to-heart with Matt Clarke helped convince the Darlington defender that the Williamson Motors Stadium is the place to be next season.

After holding further talks with Hodgson at the weekend, Clarke finally ended speculation surrounding his future by agreeing to extend his stay with Quakers for another year.

Less than three weeks after Clarke rejected Quakers' initial contract offer, the 24-year-old has pledged his future to the club following a "personal discussion" with Hodgson.

The former Wolves trainee - a target for Belgian side Charleroi and League Two rivals, Boston United and Bristol Rovers - has decided to accept the terms put forward by Quakers earlier this month.

"Initially, Matt didn't feel our offer was good enough for him," revealed Hodgson. "I called him back in and we had a good chat about everything.

"It's only natural that you look for the best deals out there and Matt felt that he could get more elsewhere.

"I respected that, but when it came down to it I asked him whether it was really worth moving on for the sake of an extra £200 here and there.

"He's settled here, had a great season with us, so why should he start all over again somewhere else?

"After a personal discussion Matt decided the best place to be was here at Darlington."

As part of the agreement, Leeds-based Clarke will re-affirm his commitment to the club by moving to the North-East.

Shrewsbury Town striker Sam Aiston has agreed to join Quakers on a one-year deal and will put pen to paper this week. Newcastle-born Aiston last week turned down a move to Grimsby.

Hodgson has also held talks with Mansfield striker Colin Larkin, but faces competition from a host of League Two rivals. Northampton, Chester, Leyton Orient and Peterborough are all interested.

Hodgson has also confirmed his interest in Manchester United striker Colin Heath. The youngster made six appearances on loan at Cambridge United this season.

Hodgson does not expect goalkeeper Sam Russell's future to be resolved until at least late July. Russell has yet to pen a new deal with Quakers and several clubs have confirmed their interest in the highly-rated 22-year-old.

A number of possible replacements have already been drawn up by Hodgson, including former Quakers keeper David Preece.