BY ALAN TEMPLE – @CCP_Sport
FALKIRK trio Tom Taiwo, Mark Kerr and Paul Watson have signed new contracts as the Bairns seek to bounce back from their playoff pain.
Combative midfielder Taiwo has been a fixture since arriving from Hibernian in 2014, while club captain Kerr has made 231 appearances over two spells with the Championship club.
Watson, who missed the three months of the campaign with a broken wrist before returning for their playoff clash against Dundee United last week, has also penned an extension.
All three players have agreed one-year deals.
“I am pleased to get all three of these players tied up for next season,” said boss Peter Houston. “They have all been great professionals in their time here so far and are all good characters to have in terms of their roles both on and off the park.
“Work has already started in terms of planning and preparation for next season and getting Paul, Tom and Mark signed up so early gives me a platform to continue to build the squad.”
The likes of Fraser Aird, John Baird and Lee Miller are also out of contract next month but are yet to agree extensions, or confirm their departures.
“Discussions have been positive so far in terms of signing up some of those who remain out of contract as well as bringing in other players to add to the quality we already have here,” added Houston. “I can’t put timescales on things just yet, but we will keep supporters informed as and when things happen.”
Meanwhile, Luke Leahy, who was among eight players to leave the club this week, has said an emotional farewell to the Falkirk Stadium.
The 24-year-old played more than 150 games during his five years with the Championship outfit.
He wrote: “Just a message to say thank you to everyone at Falkirk for the last five years. I’ve met some great people and made some lifelong friends. Thank you to everyone at Falkirk for helping me develop as a footballer and a person.
“They’ll be memories that I’ll never forget – Scottish Cup final, the playoffs and some special volleys (crosses).
“The club deserves to be in the top league and I’m sure it will be very soon.”
