McGrory and Kilmartinagree new contracts

Glenavon are currently trying to entice Guy Bates into signing a new contract after both Andy Kilmartin and Andy McGrory extended their spells at Mourneview Park.
Andy McGrory - new contract extension.Andy McGrory - new contract extension.
Andy McGrory - new contract extension.

Kilmartin has signed a new deal that will keep him at the club until summer 2016 while McGrory will be at Mourneview until summer 2015.

Next on the agenda is to secure the long-term services of star striker Bates. Gary Hamilton understands the Geordie will have a lot to consider before agreeing a new deal.

Hamilton said: “Discussing a new contract with Guy is first and foremost in our thoughts. He is key in everything we do. There will be other influences on his decision though like his partner and where the next move is for them as a couple.

“If they decide they want to stay in Ireland and he’ll be playing football here then we hope that he’ll be doing that with Glenavon. He loves the club as much as we love him.”

Bates stole the show on Monday evening, further evidence that his efforts in pre-season are paying off.

“Guy Bates was immense,” said Hamilton.

“He was exceptional from start to finish. He held the ball up well and his finishing was brilliant.

“Guy wants to be the main striker at this club and at the minute, he is. He did extra training when we signed David Rainey. At the time, he said that he wanted to be the main man and our number one striker. That’s a good attitude and determination to have.

“The fans love him, the players love him, everybody at the club loves him.”

The boss also had a word of praise for winger Andy McGrory, who has agreed a new contract.

He said: “Andy has been brilliant this season and his consistency has been very good. That’s what maybe let him down a bit last year but this season, he’s come back a new player.

“He’s a top player. His work-rate is exceptional. It’s only when you play with him, you realise how much he does for the team. We’re working on his crossing at the minute as well.”

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