Chris Shields has committed his future to Dundalk FC, with the reigning SSE Airtricity League Player of the Year signing a new 'long-term' contract with the Lilywhites.
Since moving to Oriel Park in 2012, the 28-year-old has won four Premier Division titles, two FAI Cups, two EA Sports Cups and two President’s Cups.
Shields says he's delighted to put pen to paper on the new deal with the double winners.
“It’s great to get it done. It is something I wanted to get sorted over the past few weeks but with the schedule of games that we have had I had to wait to get that out of the way but it’s the right time to do it.
“I have had great years here at the club. We have won many trophies, cups, leagues and everything in the past few seasons. My progression as a player only helps with the players around me. We have always had a fantastic squad and it’s a privilege to be part of it.”
He's hoping they can get a win over leaders Shamrock Rovers in their crucial match tomorrow night.
“We got three wins on the bounce which was important to us. We needed those wins and it was good to get them. They were tough games and we got through them.
“We are slowly but surely getting back to our ways. The games are coming thick and fast. Rovers have had a good start to the season. It’s going to be one to relish for us.
“It’s going to be a tough game but we are looking forward to it and hopefully we can continue our good form.”
📽️ Watch @Big_Shields6 speaking about his new contract on #DFCTV.
Full interview 👉 https://t.co/cbM4mO26dM#CmonTheTown #ShieldsStays pic.twitter.com/kDpfp68dKp
— Dundalk FC (@DundalkFC) April 25, 2019
The Dubliner has already made 265 appearances for Dundalk and manager Vinny Perth thinks there's still plenty to come from the midfielder.
"The challenge for Chris is to keep going, I keep saying to him that there is no ceiling to his talent and seven years ago not many people would think he would have achieved what he has achieved right now.
“He wants to continue improving. He has done that every year. He has added different facets to his game. I hope this new contract and the security that we have given him will give him the confidence to go forward, to kick on again.”
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