SOCCER: Defender Michael Welch will be staying at Macclesfield after being offered a one-year deal.
The Republic of Ireland under-17 international, who was picked up from Barnsley, impressed in the centre of Macc's defence towards the end of last season.
Now manager David Moss has challenged Welch to cement his reputation next season.
Moss said: "Michael did very well at the end of last season, and now the big test for him is to pick up where he left off.
"He's got to forget about anything he did last season, and concentrate on improving."
Moss added that he felt a one-year contract was about right, as it would keep Welch hungry to do well.
The manager said: "I like to keep a carrot there for the younger players rather than make them too comfortable.
"I've seen it happen in the past where young players get two or three-year contracts and then they switch off."
