MORECAMBE boss Sammy McIlroy wasted no time beginning the collection of new players he says he needs to bring further success to the club.

Northwich Victoria midfielder, Michael Carr, becomes McIlroy's first new signing of the close season as he plans to rebuild his squad in a bid to improve on this season's 11th place at the first time of asking in the Football League.

Carr is a former England C international, aged 24, and met Morecambe's boss just days after Vics' final league encounter of the campaign against Cambridge.

The move was made official by the Shrimps on Tuesday night after Carr passed a medical at Christie Park.

Carr made 169 appearances for Northwich - 14 as sub - since switching from Macclesfield in 2005, scoring 28 times.

McIlroy has kept an eye on his progress since his time at Macclesfield, the club Sammy managed to two promotions.

Carr is described as an energetic and skilful box-to-box player also capable of scoring with long range shots.


Carr, who signed a two-year deal said he was looking forward to life at Morecambe and said he is eager to impress in the Football League.

He said: "There were a few clubs that showed an interest in me but the fact that Sammy McIlroy is here really sold the club to me.

"I am hoping to make an impact in the club and show I can play at this level."

Describing his own strengths he said: "I like to think of myself as a box to box player who can chip in with goals as well.

"I only scored two last year but in the two years before that scored 29 goals so I am hoping to recapture that type of form as well."

Carr has played in League 2 with Macclesfield before, and had a debut he will always remember as he was booked after just 32 seconds and then sent off against Darlington.

Northwich boss, Dino Maamria said he had spoken to Carr about next season only to be told he had agreed terms at Christie Park.

"I wish him all the best," added the former Southport striker.

"Carrsy deserves a chance to test himself at a higher level and I hope he does well."