MATT Lock says it was a ‘no-brainer’ for him to come out of retirement and join Bowers & Pitsea.

Lock has linked up with the Isthmian North title chasers until the end of the season.

The central midfielder hung up his boots in January 2018, but Lock is pleased to be back on the pitch having originally begun discussions with Bowers boss Rob Small over a move to the Len Salmon Stadium in the summer.

“I spoke with Rob in pre-season but, personally and professionally, I wanted a break from football after being involved for 20 years,” said Lock, who retired after a three-year spell with Maldon & Tiptree.

“Rob rang me again two weeks ago and told me that the club were looking to win automatic promotion, had injury problems and suspensions, and asked if I would be interested in joining.

“I went in for training and I already knew some of the boys.

“After that, it was a bit of a no-brainer for me and we’ll see how it goes before deciding what happens next season.”

Lock made his first Bowers appearance by coming on as a substitute in the 5-1 victory over Bury Town on Saturday.

The 35-year-old is set to feature in Bowers’ friendly with White Ensign, which is scheduled to take place at the Len Salmon Stadium tonight.

And Lock admits it was a culture shock when he replaced Quentin Monville at Ram Meadow.

“It was a bit of a shock to the system,” added Lock.

“It’s one of those things where I could have been on the training pitch for six months but it’s still completely different in a game situation.

“I hadn’t been on the pitch for the best part of a year, so it was good to come on.”

Lock has also declined offers to join other clubs during the campaign.

“I have had a few offers because I had to be in the right place,” admitted Lock, who started his career with Exeter City.

“I had some great conversations with some managers I have got a lot of time for, but it just didn’t feel right.

“If I wasn’t in the right place, it wouldn’t have worked out.

“I probably wasn’t planning on playing again this season.

“But I have always been a fan of Rob and felt he has done a great job because, in all honesty, Bowers have been punching above their weight.

“There is a bit of pressure because I don’t want to upset the feelgood factor in the squad.

“Having won 11 in a row, I want to slot into the squad seemlessly.”