Alan Mathews to continue as Longford boss

Longford Town have announced that Alan Mathews has agreed a contract extension that will see him continue as first team manager for the 2017 SSE Airtricity League season.

Mathews began his second stint at the club in August following the resignation of Tony Cousins but could not prevent the Town from finishing at the foot of the table, nine points adrift of Wexford Youths.

Mathews' first spell at Longford, from 2002 to 2007, was a successful one that saw him win back-to-back FAI Cups in 2003 and 2004, as well as the League Cup in 2004.

Since then, Mathews has managed Cork City, Drogheda United, Shelbourne, Bray Wanderers and most recently, Longford's rivals Athlone Town.

Speaking to ltfc.ie, Mathews said he was delighted to have agreed a contract extension as he looks to lead the club back to the Premier Division.

"I am delighted to have agreed a contract extension with the club," he said.

"It’s a great honour to continue managing here and I am very happy to be taking on the challenge of getting Longford Town back to where they belong, playing in the Premier Division.

"The season just gone has been very disappointing and I want to put together a squad that will have us competing at the top of the First Division next season."