A Stockport academy graduate who was trialled by Liverpool before he'd even made the Hatters first team, he now needs to prove his worth
Another product of the club’s Centre of Excellence, the 6ft 4in centre-back was linked with a move to Liverpool in October 2005, before he'd even played for the first team; his trial at Anfield was extended so Rafa Benitez could take a personal look at him, and a £750,000 fee was agreed, but Liverpool declined to take up the option.
Another trial at Southampton followed after Tunnicliffe made his first appearance for County, against Notts County in December 2005, at the age of just 16. Injuries have since restricted his progress, but after spending a brief loan spell at Northwich Victoria, he forced his way back into Gannon’s plans towards the end of the 2007/08 season. He will be hoping to justify the initial flurry of interest in him with an extended run in the team during 2008/09.