CARLISLE veteran Peter Murphy has extended his stay with the club for another year, writes MATT LESLIE.
The 30-year-old defender (pictured right) had seemed likely to stay on after triggering an appearance clause in his contract back in February and confirmed he was staying on at Brunton Park yesterday.
Murphy signed for the Cumbrians from Blackburn in the summer of 2001 and joined an exclusive club last season when he broke through the 400 appearances barrier, with over 350 of those coming in league action for United.
Carlisle boss Greg Abbott said: “There were a few things discussed with Peter but he always had the option to extend his current contract for another 12-months.
“He’s a great lad to have around and he played some good football for us last season, with that very special weekend at Wembley as something that he will remember forever.
“He was in the side by merit and I’m sure that he will be battling to make the starting place his own again this time round. He’s one that is really respected in the dressing room and we’re looking forward to working with him again this season.”
Murphy himself was delighted to commit himself to the Carlisle cause for another year – particularly given that this will be his testimonial season.
He said: “There’s been a bit of confusion in the media about my contract situation recently, but as far as I’m concerned I’m a Carlisle player for another season, and it’s been that way since the appearance clause in my contract was triggered. I’m more than happy with that, because this is a great place to be. We did well last season and I felt personally that I played well, and hopefully that will continue.
“It’s my testimonial year as well, so I’m just looking forward to what should be another exciting season for us.”
Meanwhile, midfielder Ben Mckenna has been ruled out for a month as he continues to nurse an ankle ligament injury picked up during the latter part of his summer break.
Mckenna had a scan on the joint last week and will now receive ongoing treatment for the injury.
“Ben has been unlucky but it’s just one of those things,” said Abbott.
“He’s a fit lad so hopefully he’ll recover quickly and we can then get him back out onto the training ground.”
