Gilligan joined Northampton in 2005 (Getty Images)

Northampton Town midfielder Ryan Gilligan has signed a new two-year contract with the club.

The 21-year-old was due to leave Sixfields at the end of June but his new deal will keep him with the Cobblers until 2010.

"I'm delighted that Ryan will be with us for at least another two years," said manager Stuart Gray.

"I've seen an improvement over the season and hopefully he will be able to kick on from that again next season."

Gilligan moved from Watford three seasons ago and has scored eight goals for the Cobblers, four of which came this season.

Gray added: "I've said before that he has needed to add goals to his all round game and having scored in two of our last three games this season hopefully he will now be able to build on that.

"He is a good young player who is still improving and I think there is still definitely a lot more to come from Ryan."