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Dundalk FC began their preparations for 2014 by announcing the re-signing of both Andy Boyle and John Mountney on Wednesday afternoon.

Boyle, who signed for Dundalk from Shelbourne last winter, has had an excellent season in 2013 and has become a fan favourite putting in numerous outstanding performances and it is no surprise that he was one of the first to be secured by Stephen Kenny for 2014.

Speaking to the club's official website, dundalkfc.com, Boyle admitted he is delighted to sign on again and is already looking forward to next season.

“I really am delighted to sign again for next season. It has been a great year this year and I have thoroughly enjoyed it. I’ve really loved my football this year and it’s a great group to be around. Next year we want to push on. No one expected us to be where we are this year and the last few weeks have been a bit disappointing but as a whole, the season has been outstanding. To qualify for Europe is fantastic. It’s great that we got that and it’d be nice to have a similar season to this one. “

Mountney on the other hand will now be entering his third season at the club having signed in January 2012. The Mayo native is a player who has shown glimpses of his quality, most recently last weekend against Bohemians however his season has been disrupted by injury. The 20 year-old admitted that he had no hesitation in re-signing and is looking to put his injuries behind him and have a better season in 2014.

“I really am delighted to sign. It’ll be my third year here now and I am very well settled both on and off the pitch so I had no hesitation in signing. Personally for myself, I came into this season carrying an injury and when I got in I got on a run. Obviously it was disappointing to get injured again but when I came back in, we were still in the title race and the FAI Cup which was great to be part of. It makes a big change from last year! But hopefully next season will be even better and I am looking forward to that.”

Their manager Stephen Kenny was equally delighted with both players committing their futures and highlighted their own individual qualities to the squad.

“Andy has had an exceptional season. He is only 22 years old and has some terrific qualities. He has been really consistent all year in the back four and has been very solid. He has really impressed me in his level of play and his professionalism. He is an important player for us and will be in the coming year.

"John has just turned 20. It’s amazing to think he has been a teenager until now. He has tremendous attributes. He spent 8 weeks out in midseason and it took him a bit of time to get back into his rhythm. His versatility is very important. I really feel he has the capability to improve.”

At the moment, Boyle and Mountney join youngster Ciaran O'Connor on the books at Oriel Park for 2014 however a number of contract renewals are expected to be confirmed in the coming days and weeks.