In the words of Lionel Richie, we are delighted to confirm three players that have extended their contracts for the 2023/24 season.
Starting with the No.1, it’s Jack Atkinson.
The 22-year-old Welsh shot-stopper has been integral to Andy Welsh’s side over the past two seasons, clocking up 98 appearances.
Atkinson signed for the club in July 2021 and has been a fan favourite ever since. Making the big saves along the way and can’t forget banging the drum in the Isle of Man.
Last season he picked up the North West Counties Division One North Goalkeeper of the Year award.
Jack’s aims are clear to see ahead of the new campaign.
“I want to get another promotion with this club, as I’ve really enjoyed my time with the club and I’ve been given the opportunity for another season with the club and I’m absolutely buzzing to be at a new stadium. With it being three or four years since the first competitive game that’s going to be played here, the place is going to be absolutely rocking for the majority of the season. If we are hitting good form like we have been for the last two seasons, I’m sure it will be a really good place to be for the next season.”
From the backline to the forward line, we are delighted to extend the contract of winger Connor Comber.
The 23-year-old joined the club in August after leaving Atherton LR and signed a contract in December until the end of the 2022/23 season, which has been extended for a further year.
Comber knocked up 45 appearances last season, with the second most goal contributions amongst the squad, scoring 18 goals and supplying five assists.
He’s also been on-trial in the last 18 months at EFL side Queens Park Rangers, so he’s a player we are delighted to retain.
“I can’t wait to get going, it’s going to be big, very big. I want to get as many goals as I possibly can and I want to lift everyone here that’s watching.”
Another player that’s re-signed from the forward line is Lewis Gilboy.
The 23-year-old joined the club in August 2020 after being released by Accrington Stanley.
He also had non-league experience before coming to join Andy Welsh’s team after playing 10 games for City of Liverpool just before the pandemic in March 2020.
Lewis had the most goal contributions last season, with 32. Scoring 22 and assisting a further 10.
He’s also the second highest on the appearance charts with a 105 apperances.
“I have had a good few seasons with Bury, with things happening and the club moving forward as a whole. We’ve got goals that we want to be hitting for next season, as a team he [Andy Welsh] wants me in that side and I want to be a part of it. It’s going to be a massive season for us and hopefully with some silverware at the end of it.”
Manager Andy Welsh commented on the three contract extensions.
“Lewis and Jack have had two really good seasons with us, proved themselves at these levels both in performances and off the field. Connor came in last year and he’s been an absolute revelation. We are expecting all of those to kick on again, and I think it’s important that fans can relate to players on the pitch.”
