FANS' favourite Ben Carson is one of nine players re-signed by new Irvine Meadow manager Ross Wilson.

The midfielder, who won three gongs at the club's Player of the Year dance, was seen as a key player last season in the push for promotion, which fell just short.

Also back on board are winger Ben Black, a consistent performer throughout the season, goalkeeper Shaun Newman and Lee McCrea. Stuart Hannah, Ryan Begley, Andy Strachan,

Mark McLennan and Jared Willet.

Another nine players are set to come in with Wilson looking around.

The manager said: "We have the nucleus of a good squad and the players we re-signed all have a big part to play. It's important to have guys like Ben Carson and Lee McCrea, who all live in the area, it gives the club a local identity. Others are coming on board but I can't say at this stage who they are."

Kilwinning Rangers have offered key midfielder Liam McGuinness a three-year deal.

The former Kilbirnie Ladeside ace has played a key role this year and his experience has been invaluable to many of the younger players.

Manager Chris Strain said: "Liam was outstanding for us in the cup semi-final against Talbot last week and he has a few years in him yet."

The remainder of the squad have re-signed apart from veteran striker Ian Cashmore and defender/midfielder Sam McCloskey.

Strain said: "Ian Cashmore would be more likely to get game time elsewhere and Sam has had some big money offers elsewhere."