BASINGSTOKE Town have re-signed star defender David Ray, as well as announcing their first pre-season game, which will be against League Two side AFC Wimbledon.

Town boss Jason Bristow beat off competition from other teams to keep Ray at the Soccer AM Stadium.

The fans’ favourite was a key part of Basingstoke’s success last season, in which he made 48 appearances to take his club tally to 318.

He made his debut for Town as a teenager in 2002 and started his latest spell with the Dragons in February 2013.

Talking about his return Bristow said: “He was outstanding for us last season and he has a big influence both on and off the pitch.”

Ray will be in the side which takes on AFC Wimbledon on Tuesday July 14 (7.45pm) which will also see the return of goalkeeper Joe McDonnell.

The goalie who grew up in Basingstoke and came through their academy programme signed for Wimbledon last summer.

The Dons finished 15th in League Two last season and narrowly lost 2-1 to Premiership Liverpool in the FA Cup.

They have locked horns with Town before twice in the league and once in the FA Cup and on each occasion the Dragons have been beaten 1-0.

Looking ahead to exciting pre-season game, Town boss Jason Bristow said: “We look forward to welcoming Neil Ardley and some familiar faces back to the club.”