Hurst close to new Shakers deal (From Bury Times)

Hurst close to new Shakers deal

8:29am Thursday 29th May 2008

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GLYNN Hurst is close to signing a new contract to stay with the Shakers.

Doubts had arisen over the experienced striker's future after he was offered only a reduced deal to remain at Gigg Lane into a second year. But after further talks with manager Alan Knill this week, the 32-year-old has confirmed he is ready to pen a new improved contract.

"I had a good chat with the gaffer this week and I think another offer is coming through," Hurst said.

"It might not be on the same kind of money but obviously with a mortgage and a family, it has to be enough to survive.

"Everyone knows I enjoy it here at Bury. I want to stay and the manager wants me to stay. We have a good relationship.

"He is trying to create the most competitive squad he can with the money he has available. I can't blame him for that."

Hurst has become one of the most popular characters on the terraces at Bury after bursting on to the scene with a spectacular spell on loan from Shrewsbury in September 2006.

His partnership with Andy Bishop in that first season spawned 32 goals and went a long way to pulling the club clear of relegation.

His second campaign, however, was less successful. Just eight goals in 33 starts, including an unhappy period playing as a wing-back, prompted some to speculate the striker would leave the club in the summer.

Knill's arrival, however, signalled an upturn in form for the former Chesterfield hitman. Three goals in six games during March helped steer the club into mid-table safety.

When the retained list was announced at the end of April, the doubters resurfaced, with even his manager admitting he did not know whether Hurst would sign the deal on the table.

But it was Knill's honest approach during negotiations, and his own affinity for the club, that convinced him to keep the faith.

He added: "I like the way the manager has gone about things and that he values me as a player. I can honestly say that I am completely happy here, whatever people might think.

"I'd like to stay as long as I can, even if it is one year at a time."

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