Stanley midfielder Liam Coyle has put pen to paper over a new two-year deal at the Wham Stadium.

Coyle joined the Reds' youth ranks in 2021 after a spell at Liverpool and made his senior debut in an EFL Trophy tie against Leicester. He has gone on to make 81 appearances for the first team, playing 14 times last season.

Manager John Doolan told the club website: "Liam came back and finished the season strong, got himself back in contention, played a couple of games, did really well, found his legs and then unfortunately for him, the season finished.

"It's like having a new signing. He's great in the dressing room, great on the training pitch, affects the training, and the lads can see what he can do in terms of what he brings on a gameday.

"Ideally, we want two in each position and everyone fighting for their position. That's what we want, good competition for the lads.

"We've got a good balance in the midfield now and it's not to say that we won't bring others in, but at the minute, we're really pleased, especially getting Coyley over the line. It's really exciting for us."

The new deal will keep Coyle at the Wham Stadium until the summer of 2026 as the Reds aim to build on their 17th-place finish in League Two last season.

The midfielder added: "I'm really happy to get the deal sorted. I've loved my time here over the last three years, so I'm really glad to continue this journey on.

"After the injury setback, it's still nice to be offered a long-term contract. I get on with John Doolan and Ged Brannan on a personal level as well, so I'm really looking forward to working with them.

"I know they can get the best out of these players and I don't see why this team can't push for promotion next season."