Pic: Stockport County FC
STOCKPORT COUNTY have secured full-back Sam Minihan on an improved two-year deal – and the club are set to increase their season ticket sales for the fourth year in a row.
Minihan joined the Hatters 12 months ago from Worcester City and impressed in his first season at Edgeley Park, picking up the Young Player of the Year award.
The 23-year-old, who started his career at hometown club Rochdale, has committed his future to Stockport, putting pen to paper on an extended contract.
It’s just reward for the youngster, who has also joined the coaching team in the Hatters’ Community Foundation.
County boss Jim Gannon said: “It’s great news for the club that Sam has agreed an extended two-year deal.
“As manager, a lot of my work over the summer has been concentrating on the new recruits, but I’m keenly aware that we’re carrying forward from last season a very good group of players. Over two thirds of this season’s squad have been part of the team that reached 73 points, our highest points tally at his level.
“Sam was an important part of that team and was our Young Player of the Year. Whilst securing new recruits, I’m conscious of understanding the ambition of our current players and helping them achieve success in their careers here and in the wider game.
“I feel he is a player who will grow with us and would relish the opportunity to train and play full time, and get to a higher level with the club.”
The National League North outfit have also confirmed that they have sold over 1,000 season tickets so far for the new season.
The Hatters expect to smash last season’s total and make it four years in a row of increased sales despite struggling to climb back up the leagues.
Chairman Richard Park said: “The fans never cease to amaze us, and we are all absolutely determined to give them something to cheer.
“We missed out on the play-offs last season by one goal, but this year we have added even more resources to the playing budget as we look to realise our ambitions. We need to get out of this league and to see the fans queuing up to buy tickets gives us massive encouragement.”
