Motherwell boss Mark McGhee has welcomed three players agreeing to extend their time at Fir Park by another year.

Goakeeper Craig Samson, defender David Ferguson and striker Craig Moore are all confirmed to be part of the Steelmen's squad for next season.

Samson, 32, was back-up to on-loan keeper Connor Ripley last season but played in wins against Hearts and Ross County.

Ferguson, 20, centre-back in Motherwell's Youth Cup Final victory over Hearts, has also signed on for another year after short-term loan deals at Alloa, Annan Athletic and Airdrie.

Striker Moore, 21, spent last year at Ayr United, scoring 14 goals in 23 league starts.

McGhee told the club's official website: "We're pleased to have the first of our business complete in what will no doubt be a busy summer.

"Sammy [Samson] was superb all season long and only failed to get in because of Connor Ripley's form, but I have faith in him.

"Craig Moore has been fantastic for Ayr and we've been watching him regularly. He'll come back in pre-season and make a strong pitch to be a regular for us.

"David has also been out on loan and his performances there and with the under-20s are deserving of a deal.

"Like Craig, he'll start pre-season with us to stake a claim to be a regular at Motherwell.

"We're still in advanced discussions with several other players and hope to conclude deals shortly."

Under-20s players Jack McMillan and Ross MacLean have signed on for another year, with under-17s Jordan Armstrong and James Scott signing professional contracts that will commence this summer.