Luke Conlan signs new Morecambe deal as Aaron McGowan's Hamilton move is confirmed

Luke Conlan is staying at Morecambe after signing a new deal

The left back has signed a new one-year contract at the Globe Arena, following players including Andy Fleming, Steven Old, Alex Kenyon, Kevin Ellison and Barry Roche in committing his future to the club.

The 23-year-old impressed towards the end of the campaign as Jim Bentley’s side preserved their Football League status on the final day of the season at Coventry.

Former Burnley youngster Conlan joined the Shrimps back in 2016 after a successful loan spell.

“Luke really came to the fore in the second half of last season and was one of our most consistent players,” said Bentley.

“I know he had interest from other clubs so I am delighted that he has chosen to stay.

“He is another young player who is gaining in experience and getting better all the time and is a great player to work with.”

One player leaving the Shrimps is Aaron McGowan, the full back having completed a move to Scottish Premiership side Hamilton Academical.

The 21-year-old came through the ranks at the Globe Arena and has made more than 100 Football League appearances.

His performances last season saw the Liverpudlian named the supporters’ player of the year.

Earlier this month Morecambe announced McGowan had turned down the offer of a new contract and was heading north of the border with New Douglas Park now confirmed as his new home.

“There were a few other options but the club made me feel at home straight away,” he said.

“I want to improve as a player and as a person and the environment here, alongside the people that they’ve developed here in the past, was a big factor in my decision to join.

“People might look at Hamilton as a club and think they are not one of the big boys in the Premiership but I don’t look at it like that.

“I don’t care who we’re playing against, I just want to win games at 3pm on a Saturday.”

The Accies finished 10th in Scotland’s top flight last season and only avoided a play-off to preserve their Premiership status on goal difference.