Amongst all the talk of takeovers, City boss Glenn Roeder received a welcome piece of good news this afternoon when it was announced that Gary Doherty has put pen to paper on a new, two-year deal.
At a time when defensive resources are thin on the ground, securing Doherty's signature after his contract expired this summer is a step in the right direction as Roeder's rebuilding plans continue.
There had been talk of a switch to the MLS – possibly teaming up with old pal Darren Huckerby at San Jose Earthquake ? but the former Republic of Ireland international has decided to remain in Norfolk, his home since 2004.
He joins Mark Fotheringham and Robert Eagle in signing on for another tour of duty and the former Spurs man will be delighted to finally sort out his immediate future.
Doherty was one of City's most consistent performers last season, making 32 starts, and was described by Roeder as a 'rock' at the heart of the Canary defence.
But the length of time it took for the Donegal-born player to agree terms had led people to speculate that he was on his way out of Norfolk ? with the MLS his reported destination.
However, Canary chief Roeder only a couple of weeks ago revealed that he expected Doherty to re-sign, even if it was going to take a little longer than expected.
“Obviously we want him to sign; we've made him a good offer; he's gone away to think about it,” said the City boss. “And sometimes things take a little bit longer to sink in for some people than it does for others.
“But, again, there's no panic. Everyone else seems to be running around like headless chickens. Let's just stay nice and calm. The contract is there for him to sign; if he wants to sign it, fantastic. If he doesn't, that's life.
“If he can find somewhere better than Norwich City then good luck to him. I don't think he will…”
Tom Haylett
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