MARCUS Carver has become the seventh player to sign a new contract at Accrington Stanley this summer.

Carver has made 21 appearances for Stanley’s first team since emerging from the youth ranks, and has agreed a deal to remain at the Store First Stadium for a further 12 months.

The 20-year-old netted his first senior goal in Stanley’s shock League Cup win at Middlesbrough last August, before having a spell on loan at non-league club Halifax.

He did not feature in the final months of the season after needing an operation because of ‘compartment syndrome’, a condition where the blood supply to leg muscles and nerves is restricted after an injury.

“I’ve signed for another year and hopefully I can make my mark this season,” Carver said.

“I struggled with an injury towards the end of last season but I’m fit again now and looking to come back for pre-season and show the gaffer what I’ve got.

“I think the injury has actually made me stronger. I’ve been watching from the sides for about four months and all I was thinking that I never want to finish with football. What would I have without it? Nothing.

“I knew I wasn’t in contract for this season but when the manager told me he wanted me for another year I was delighted.

“James Gray is a great example for me. He’s been called up to the Northern Ireland squad for the first time and last season towards the end he was fantastic. I need to take a leaf out of his book.”