UNITED's midfield will be strengthened considerably next season with the arrival of Philip Carson, Darren Lockhart and Noel Anderson.

The long running transfer of Carson was finally sealed this week, when the 21-year-old Glentoran player put pen to paper on a two year contract at the Showgrounds.

The industrial central midfielder had been a long term target of manager Roy Walker, having tried to bring him in on loan during the January transfer window only to see that blocked at the eleventh hour by Glentoran manager Alan McDonald.

During his time at the Oval, he made 31 appearances, scoring once - but had been restricted to just seven appearances last term.

Walker also adds two players from relegated Bangor, which will look add a bit of experience to a youthful United side.

Darren Lockhart (35), is a player that Roy Walker signed before during his time at Crusaders and joins the club on a one year contract.

Lockhart has won virtually every medal available to him during his career in the Irish League both with Crusaders and Glentoran. He spent last season with Bangor, making 32 appearances and scoring once.

Finally, Noel Anderson has returned to the club where he began his career. The 27-year-old Carrickfergus based player has had spells with Carrick, Ballyclare, Lisburn Distillery, Coleraine and Bangor since leaving the Showgrounds in 2001.

He finished last season with Bangor, making 35 appearances and scoring once, but will be looking to return with a point to prove to United fans who never seen his full potiential in a United shirt, after signing a one year deal with the club.

Meanwhile, talented teenage midfielder Ryan Deans has also signed a new one year contract at the Showgrounds.