Waterford FC have announced that manager Marc Bircham has signed a new contract with the SSE Airtricity League Premier Division club.
The 43-year-old took over at the RSC in May and has signed a new two-year contract until the end of the 2023 season.
After a shaky start to his time in charge, losing back-to-back games and three of his first four matches in charge, Bircham has turned the Blues fortunes around and they go into their match against Bohemians on Saturday having won their last four on the trot.
"I’m delighted to get this sorted. It’s been a really enjoyable few months since I’ve arrived here and we’re building momentum around the club," Bircham told the official club website.
"The owner Richard [Forrest], chairman Mitch[ell Cowling] and everyone around the club are trying to build something great here and I want to be a part of that.
"Since I’ve come in I’ve really enjoyed the challenge, working with the staff and players every day has been great and we’ve really started to make progress so I’m thrilled to be able to put that stability in place and concentrate on our on-field work."
One of those wins under Bircham was a dramatic penalty shoot-out success against Athlone Town to set up a second-round tie with non-league Kilnamanagh in the FAI Cup.
Bircham has also dragged the club out of the relegation zone and Forrest feels the manager has given everyone at the club a huge lift.
"We’re delighted that Marc wants to be a part of what we’re trying to build here at Waterford FC," said Forrest.
"Marc has been a breath of fresh air around the club and you can really see the progress we’re making. On and off the pitch we’re looking to build the club and get us moving in the right direction.
"We’ve backed Marc, and he’s worked with myself and Mitch to bring is some quality players that will excite the fans in the RSC and around the country.
"Securing Marc is important for the club and ensures stability so we can focus on bringing the club forward. We hope to see as many fans as possible in the RSC this weekend and going forward to cheer on Marc and the team."
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