Full-back Birch, who joined the club from Northwich Victoria for a fee of £10,000 in the summer of 2000, managed to force his way back into the starting line-up towards the back end of the season and manager Roddy Collins was impressed enough to give the 26-year-old another opportunity with the club. Birch came back into the side following an injury to Brian Shelley but sadly missed out on a chance to play in the LDV Vans Trophy final at Cardiff through suspension. He scored the only goal in United's last Brunton Park success over Macclesfield Town in March. Raven, who was signed on a free transfer in February following his release by Grimsby Town earlier in the season has also agreed terms with the club. The 32-year-old is the most experienced member of the squad and will be vital to Collins's plans next season. The Cumbrians pulled to safety after Raven moved into the centre of defence, going unbeaten in all the away games in which he started. United have also offered contracts to skipper Peter Murphy, midfielder Will McDonagh and left back Lee Maddison. Murphy has been linked to First Division Ipswich Town but has hinted he will sign on the dotted line while McDonagh came on a bundle this season after a shaky start in his first few matches following his signing from Eircom Leaguers Bohemians in November 2001. Maddison, who was originally signed by Ian Atkins in January 2001 following an initial loan spell, scored his first goal for the Cumbrians in January against Leyton Orient. He also battled back into the starting line-up after being left out. Meanwhile goalkeeper Luke Weaver, defender Adam Thwaites and striker Marc Nixon have all been released. Picture from News & Star |
