Cambridge United can today confirm that Harrison Dunk, Liam O’Neil and Greg Taylor have all accepted and signed new one year deals at the Abbey Stadium.
Following ongoing discussions since the announcement of the Club’s retain/release list in late April, all three players have now signed fresh terms with the U’s extending their period at the Abbey as key members to Mark Bonner’s first team squad until at least the end of the 2020/21 season.
Having picked up consecutive Player of the Year accolades in recent seasons for his performances on the field, Taylor, who surpassed 250 appearances for the Club last term, will remain an experienced head at the heart of the U’s central defence. Likewise, as seen during Mark Bonner’s interim phase as Head Coach, O’Neil, who picked up the League Two Community Player of the Year award in 2018, will also be an important voice from central midfield during the 2020/21 campaign as he moves into a fourth year back at the Club where he began as a youth product.
Meanwhile, the new deal for Dunk, 29, confirms a notable tenth season at the Abbey since his arrival from Bromley in 2011. As recognition for his decade of exceptional service tearing up United’s left wing, the Club are also pleased to announce Harrison has been granted a testimonial. However, given the continued uncertainty as a result of the Coronavirus outbreak, the exact details of this event will be confirmed at a point in time when the Club are able to allow supporters to engage fully with the celebration and show the level of appreciation befitting of Harrison’s achievement and application across his time with the U’s.
With over 670 appearances in amber and black between them, the trio share a wealth of experience and their understanding of Cambridge United will ensure the Club’s values are maintained thoroughly both on and off the field for the forthcoming campaign.
Cambridge United Head Coach Mark Bonner commented: “I’ve said consistently that I believe Harrison, Liam and Greg’s experience is vital to the team and they have a big role to play in the coming year.
“It is rare these days that players remain so long in one place, particularly in the case of Greg and Harrison going into their ninth and tenth seasons respectively, but it’s that connection to a club, a cause and its supporters that will allow us to build on our identity.
“In each individual case the players have demonstrated to me the value they can bring to our team and our culture. Harrison has the ability to create chances and bring attacking intent to our play, Liam can help us dominate the midfield and give us security, playing with intelligence and discipline. Greg is capable of dominating and organising our defensive line and has led the dressing room excellently since I took charge of the team. At their best, they make us better. That’s the challenge for all of us. Consistent performances, bringing our best game as often as possible.
“We need to build a team that reflects our values and I expect a level of leadership from Harrison, Liam and Greg to influence that. I believe they all have these qualities and can be a vital part of our new team in the season ahead. Because of that, I’m delighted they have extended their time with us.”
