SHAMROCK ROVERS HAVE continued their early planning for next season by retaining the services of Gary McCabe.

The Hoops, who suffered a disappointing season in 2012, have already announced the signings of Jason McGuinness, James Chambers, Sean O’Connor and PFAI Player of the Year Mark Quigley since the arrival of new manager Trevor Croly.

There are likely to be a number of departures from Tallaght and Daryl Kavanagh has left for Cork City but local lad McCabe has decided to stay.

The 24-year-old winger, who joined from Sligo Rovers in 2011 after making a name for himself in the league with Bray Wanderers, has put pen to paper on a new two-year deal, it was confirmed today.

McCabe said: “I’m delighted to have signed the new deal. I worked with Trevor before, under Michael O’Neill, so I know how good he is and I’m looking forward to working with him again.

“It’s good to have the security of a two year contract, but it’s also a boost as it shows that Trevor has confidence in me to do well.

I can’t wait to get back into the football next season and to put this year behind us. I think we’re going to have a good year in 2013.”

Croly added: “It’s brilliant to have signed Gary up for another two years. There were other clubs interested in him, but he was keen to stay on. He is an exciting player who can create and score goals, so he will continue to be a great asset to the team.

“He can also play in a number of positions; it is always good to have versatile players like that in your squad.”

Irish Eye: Long puts family loss to one side, downs Chelsea

Rooney and de Gea train ahead of ‘dead’ tie in Turkey