DEFENDER Michael Liddle has signed a new 12-month contract with Accrington Stanley.

The 24-year-old is targeting more regular first team football after being limited to 19 starts last season.

And he believes the club is ready to move forward after two survival battles in his first two full seasons with the Reds.

“I always knew that I wanted to come back here after last season and the way it went for the team more than myself,” he said.

“I can see that this is a club that is moving forward.

“I want to get back here and hopefully I can improve things on a personal front, get more games, have fewer injuries and help the club going forward.”

Manager James Beattie said he was pleased to have former Sunderland youngster Liddle back on board.

“Lidds is a very solid left back as we’ve seen over the last few seasons,” he said.

"He found his opportunities limited last season for one reason or another but I want real competition this season and he’s looking to fight for a place.

“He’s a determined young man and a very good player. He was eager to sign the deal and stay for another 12 months and I’ve said to him that it’s his position to take. He’s fit and has been working hard over the summer and that’s the sort of lad that he is.”