TRANMERE Rovers' preparations for League One continue with the signing of defenders Liam Ridehalgh and Evan Gumbs on new contracts.

Ridehalgh, who is current longest serving member of the squad, has signed a contract that will keep him at Prenton Park for a further two years.

The 28 year-old has made 195 appearances since joining Rovers permanently in 2014 and has played a key role in helping the Club achieve successive promotions back to Sky Bet League One.

On his new deal, Liam said: "I'm over the moon to get it sorted and I’m looking forward to next season in League One.

"We've been on a journey and it means a lot to me to be with the Club back in League One.

"I love the club, I love the lads and I love the manager. The Chairman and Nicola have improved the place massively from when I first arrived.

"The fans have been a huge factor in me staying. We were getting above 9,000 at the end of last season and they have been brilliant at sticking by us."

Gumbs, a graduate of Rovers academy, has penned a new one-year contract at the Club and will continue his rehabilitation from an ACL injury he sustained in the draw at League Two champions Lincoln City last April.

A commanding second-half performance in that game saw the 21-year-old receive well deserved praise from both Micky Mellon and the fans.

Evan said: "I'm made up.

"I'm really happy the Gaffer and Jacko have seen enough in me to offer me another contract. Hopefully this season I can kick on and get going."

Having been faced with two long term injuries in quick succession, Gumbs insists that a positive frame of mind is key.

"It's part of the game. I just need to keep my head down, work hard and come back from it stronger.

"I'm still on crutches for another few weeks and then the recovery period will take 7-9 months but I'm not going to rush it, I will take my time to recover properly."

Manager Micky Mellon was very pleased to see both defenders put pen to paper to stay at Prenton Park.

He said: "I'm delighted to be able to work with both players again next season.

"Liam has been magnificent for us and understands the standards that we have here at the Club having been here for over five years now.

"Evan has shown us what he is capable of when he has played and he will get all of the support that he needs with his injury.

"He has a great character, I'm in no doubt about that.

"We will steadily get him back to fitness."