THE first three members of Warrington Rylands’ FA Vase-winning squad to re-commit themselves to the club for the coming season have now been confirmed.

Club captain Gary Kenny and talismanic goalkeeper Graeme McCall have signed deals for the 2021-22 campaign, which will be Blues’ first in the Northern Premier League.

Centre-back Rick Smith will also remain with the club, joining permanently on a two-year deal.

All three played big parts in the club’s historic FA Vase triumph, culminating in the 3-2 final win over Binfield at Wembley Stadium last month.

For Kenny and McCall, though, their association with the club goes back much further.

Both joined when they were accepted into the North West Counties League in 2018, with veteran defender Kenny immediately handed the captain’s armband he has held ever since.

"He’s our captain, our leader and a true club legend," Blues boss Dave McNabb said of Kenny.

"Gaz was pretty much one of the first signings we made and arguably the best.

"He’s a brilliant defender who reads the game so well.

"To add to that, he’s one of the nicest people you will ever meet and is always helping the younger players, offering support and guidance.

"Signing his first ever contract in what could be his last season is just reward for everything he has done for the club and us as a group."

McCall’s penalty heroics were a prominent part of Rylands’ run to Wembley as he made key saves in shoot-out victories over Jarrow, Shildon and West Auckland Town.

McNabb says the shot-stopper has become “a real Rylands club man” during his time at Gorsey Lane and believes he is only getting better.

“Podge was obviously one of the heroes in our FA Vase run and was instrumental in us winning that competition,” he said.

“That shouldn’t overshadow the rest of his performances over his three years at the club, though.

“Over the three years he’s been here, he’s been our most consistent player.

“Each game and each season, he seems to get better and better.

“He’s a massive part of the dressing room, he keeps everyone grounded and he’s a real Rylands club man.”

Smith joined the club on dual registration from Atherton Collieries when the Vase run restarted in April and formed an impressive defensive partnership with Kenny.

An agreement has now been reached with Atherton for Smith to join permanently on a two-year deal.

“Rick’s got a lot of experience playing higher up the football pyramid,” McNabb said.

“He came in and became pivotal in the Vase run.

“We’re made up to get him on board for the next couple of seasons as a Rylands player.”

Winger Kane Drummond was already under contract for the 2021-22 campaign and more retentions and signings are expected to be announced in the coming days.

Blues' first pre-season friendly sees them take on FC United of Manchester at Gorsey Lane on Tuesday, July 6, as they prepare for their NPL West Division season which is due to get underway on Saturday, August 14.