Out-of-contract defender Michael Kay has committed his immediate future to the Blues, signing a new 12-month deal.

Kay, a former England Under 17s international, arrived at the Swansway Chester Stadium last summer having been released from then League One side Tranmere Rovers.

A product of the academy at Premier League club Sunderland, the 24-year-old made 33 appearances last term as the Blues were relegated from the Conference Premier.

Consett-born Kay was sent off on his home debut in a 2-0 defeat to Hereford United and struggled for form over the first half of the campaign, resulting in him being dropped.

But the 24-year-old was handed a chance in central defence and produced some solid performances as he became one of the first names on manager Steve Burr's teamsheet, although he missed two of the final three games through suspension.

His contract expired at the end of the season but he has now put to pen to paper on a new one year deal with an option for another 12 months.

Kay, who is now on holiday in Spain for two weeks, told The Chronicle he was delighted to have tied up his future and looking forward to helping the club bounce back from relegation.

Burr, currently in Slovakia with the England C squad, was impressed with Kay's form towards the end of last season and is pleased to have retained his services.

He said: "Michael is a key signing for us and we are delighted to have him on board."