County’s Young Player of the Year, Sam Minihan, has signed an improved two-year contract to remain at Edgeley Park until the end of 2018/19 season. The 23-year-old attacking full-back made a great impression last season, having joined the Hatters twelve months ago from Worcester City.
Manager Jim Gannon says he’s delighted to have secured Sam for a further two years. He said: “It’s great news for the club that Sam has agreed an extended two-year deal. As manager, a lot of my work over the summer has been concentrating on the new recruits, but I’m keenly aware that we’re carrying forward from last season a very good group of players. Over two thirds of this season’s squad have been part of the team that reached 73 points, our highest points tally at his level.
“Sam was an important part of that team and was our Young Player of the Year. Whilst securing new recruits, I’m conscious of understanding the ambition of our current players and helping them achieve success in their careers here and in the wider game.”
Sam has also further strengthened his County links by joining the coaching team in the Hatters’ Community Foundation. Jim Gannon said: “Sam has shown a great desire to commit more time and energy to his football career, and he’s a great addition to the Community Foundation team – that in itself is a great plus for the club, but it has also allowed me to consider how Sam can develop as a professional at the club as we move forward to a full time structure. I feel he is a player who will grow with us and would relish the opportunity to train and play full time, and get to a higher level with the club.”
Jim says the two-year deal is also a fitting tribute to Sam’s contribution over the past season: “A two-year deal shows our recognition of his commitment to the club over the last season and also our belief that he will continue to serve the club very well for many years to come as we both develop and grow.”
Sam, a graduate from Loughborough University, can play full-back, wing-back or act as a hard-working wide midfielder in a three or four-man midfield. He also boasts Football League experience having started his career at his hometown club Rochdale.
