IAN Monk has signed a two-year deal to stay with Leigh RMI.

The winger was far from his best during the last Conference campaign but the club say they are happy to draw on his experience for two further campaigns.

It lays to rest the theory that there would be a mass exodus from Hilton Park this summer after cash struggles and the threat of relegation plagued last season. Eight big name players have left the club but Steve Waywell is confident that he will have a better squad on a smaller wage bill.

The club play their first friendly of the close season this evening at Kidsgrove Athletic of the Unibond League.

They have also arranged a further friendly to the previously arranged list. RMI will visit Prestwich Heys on July 25.