Gary Birch today signed a new one year deal at Bescot, as next season’s squad begins to take shape. The 22 year old is believed to have turned down a two year deal at Barnsley - for whom he scored two goals in eight games on loan last season - to stay at Bescot.
“I’m overjoyed really.” said Birch, “I never wanted to leave the club it was just been a matter of sorting out the contract. It came as a bit of a shock that I was loaned to Barnsley last season to be honest, but I’ve played in the Second Division now so I know what it’s all about. It’s always nice to be wanted by managers and I was delighted that Merse got the job here because I have the upmost respect for him and I think he likes my style of play.”
Birch - a target of the Bescot boo boys - was frequently played out of position by old boss Colin Lee and was even coached as an emergency defender. His goal tally dwindled and he netted only four goals in 37 appearances. Birch will be looking to get a once promising career back on track at the forefront of Paul Merson’s promotion challenge. “This division should hold no fears for us. As long as we go out with a positive frame of mind, which I know we will, there could be some good times ahead. We have a good blend of youth and experience now so it should be an exciting season,” he added.