Hayes re-signs for Caley Thistle

Last updated : 08 May 2010 By BBC Sport

Inverness Caledonian Thistle say they have held off competition from English clubs to extend the contract of 22-year-old midfielder Johnny Hayes.Hayes has signed a two-year deal, while 25-year-old forward Danni Sanchez has agreed a new one-year contract.

But left-back Lionel Djebi-Zadi and centre-half Nauris Bulvitis are among six players being released.

Keeper Kyle Allison, defender Jamie Duff and midfielders Robert Eagle and Daniel Stratford are also leaving.

Caley Thistle are returning to the Scottish Premier League after ending their first year back in Division One as champions.

And chairman George Fraser told his club website: "A number of other clubs south of the Border were keen on Johnny Hayes and it's a tonic that he has shown commitment to the club.

These two lads have earned the right to play at the top level

Inverness Caledonian Thistle manager Terry Butcher

"As a fans' favourite, our supporters will be relieves that he's staying."

Former Republic of Ireland Under-21 international Hayes joined Caley Thistle in July after leaving Leicester City and had been linked last week with Doncaster Rovers.

Sanchez also signed for Inverness last summer after a successful trial.

Manager Terry Butcher told his club website: "I'm extremely pleased to add Johnny and Danni to our squad as we prepare for the SPL.

"These two lads have earned the right to play at the top level.

"The pieces are falling into place on the re-signing front and I hope to have more good news by the weekend."

Bulvitis, who arrived from Tranzitis Ventspils, has not been offered a new contract despite the Latvian making 32 appearances for Inverness.

Former Norwich City man Eagle made only eight starts this term, while fellow midfielder Stratford, previously of DC United, made the same number of league appearances.

Ex-Ross County defender Djebi-Zadi, who had been with Inverness since leaving Verl in 2008, made 10 appearances.

Allison and Duff, who missed this season with a cruciate ligament injury, had not yet become regulars in the first-team squad.

Source: BBC Sport

Source: BBC Sport