Roche could make his 100th club appearance if they reach the play-offs

Morecambe goalkeeper Barry Roche says that negotiations over a new contract are going well.

The 28-year-old joined the Shrimps from Chesterfield in 2008 on a two-year deal, which expires this summer, and has made 94 appearances for them.

The former Nottingham Forest man told BBC Radio Lancashire: "It went quiet for a while but there have been more talks over the last week or so.

"So it's going well and I'm hopeful that something can be sorted out."

Roche, who began his career with Forest, has become a firm favourite at Christie Park since joining on a free transfer.

I'm still hopeful. I know there are still talks going on Manager Sammy McIlroy

He said: "I think the longer it's gone on people have been asking me after games 'what's happening?' 'Are you staying or are you not staying?'

"But I'm settled in the area. I've really really enjoyed my two years at the club. I have a great rapport with the fans so I'm hopeful something can get sorted out."

Manager Sammy McIlroy has agreed new deals recently with Andy Parrish, Neil Wainwright, Craig Stanley and Emanuel Panther and he hopes Roche can put pen to paper soon.

He said: "I'm still hopeful. I know there are still talks going on.

"From what I hear they have taken a turn for the better so hopefully we can nip that in the bud as soon as possible."

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