McManus is first summer signing

 Source: Halifax Courier

 SCOTT McManus has become the first player to join Town since promotion, arriving from last season’s Evo-Stik Premier Division rivals FC United of Manchester.

And boss Neil Aspin is expecting big things from the 21-year-old who began his career as a Manchester United youngster and was also on the books at Crewe Alexandra.

“He is a young player who we feel can get better,” said Aspin. “Scott played League football for Crewe but things did not work out for him there.

“He was with FC United last season when they did well in FA Cup games with Rochdale and Brighton, but didn’t play against us because he was suspended.

“But his return to the side coincided with them doing well in the league and he was part of their side that did really well towards the end of the season.

“He is a good footballer who is comfortable in possession.”

McManus, who can play on the left of defence or midfield, played 47 games for FC United after joining them last summer.

Liam Hogan is already under contract at the Shay for next season, but there has still been no official word on the futures of either Andrew Milne or Mark Bower for the 2011-12 campaign.

Aspin has to speak to the duo, who linked up with Hogan in the closing weeks of the campaign.

The manager has confirmed that Harry Winter will be with the Shaymen next season.

Injury destroyed the midfielder’s hopes of making an impact last season after he returned to the club from Northwich, having spent a successful spell on loan at the Shay in 2009-10.

“I signed Harry because I know he can do well for us,” said Aspin. “But he never had a chance because of his injury.

“He will definitely be at the club next season.”

Richard Metcalfe will definitely not be at the club next term after spending the final months of last season on loan at Harrogate Town who he is expected to join on a permanent basis.