Players' Futures Secured

Last updated : 14 June 2006 By Andy Beill
Photo © Corred
Leon Cort - signs long-term contract (Photo © Corred)
The new contracts have been penned over the last six weeks, so Taylor was probably instrumental in them pledging their futures to Hull City, even though he hasn't.

Most of the squad were only under contract for another year, with the exception of five who were contracted until 2008.

Leon Cort and Damien Delaney are now on the longest contracts, signed up until June 2009.

Andy Dawson and Stuart Elliott have signed one-year extensions to their present deals, keeping them with the club until 2008. Steve McPhee, who has started just two games since signing last summer due to injury, has also signed until 2008. He should be fit to make his comeback at the start of pre-season.

Nick Barmby, who was on a year-to-year contract, is now on board until June 2008, when he will be 34 years old.

Defender Alton Thelwell, who was out of contract this summer after only signing a short term deal, has signed a contract to keep him here until the end of the 2006/07 season.

The only player out of contract is Robbie Stockdale, who has been released.

There are 25 full time professionals on the club's books - a figure that Taylor's replacement may wish to cut down, especially if he is to bring in new signings.

Fans worried that Taylor will want to make player of the year Boaz Myhill his first signing at Selhurst Park will be relieved to know that the goalkeeper currently has two years left on his contract, so City would be able to demand a sufficient transfer fee to let him go.

For a full run-down of the length of players' contracts, click here.