Portadown players Gary Hamilton and Richard Clarke have agreed new three-year contracts with the Shamrock Park club.

The deals were finally clinched on Friday after lengthy negotiations with both players.

Manager Ronnie McFall was delighted to get the talks finalised.

"It is important we hold on to our best young players," said McFall.

Former Blackburn player Hamilton forms a deadly frontline partnership with Vinny Arkins.

The 22-year-old has scored 30 goals this season taking in the Premier Division, CIS and Irish Cups.

Clarke, who is 23, is rated as one of the best attacking midfielders in the Irish League.

Both are Northern Ierland Under-21 internationals.

Clarke is not able to play for Portadown in Saturday's home game against Omagh as he is suspended.