Northern Ireland manager Ian Baraclough has signed a two-year contract extension.
His new deal will keep him in charge for the Euro 2024 qualifiers, and the 2022-23 UEFA Nations League campaign. That deal will be further extended if the North reach the Euros.
Baraclough endured a tough start, after taking over from Michael O'Neill in June of 2020.
They went eleven games without a win, prior to a 3-0 victory away to Malta in May of this year. A playoff defeat to Slovakia in November of last year cost them a place at Euro 2020.
“I am really happy to have signed this contract," said Baraclough, "We have a great mix of youth and experience and, coupled with my backroom team, I feel we can continue to grow and develop as a group.
“I want to thank the Irish FA for backing me and the Northern Ireland fans for doing likewise. Those games behind closed doors during the height of the Covid pandemic, both home and away, were harder without them.
“Having them back in numbers puts a spring in everyone’s step and I want to acknowledge their support and I hope that more good times are on the horizon.”
Irish FA President Conrad Kirkwood added, "I’m excited about what Ian is building and I’m already looking forward to the next set of games under his leadership.”
While Irish FA chief executive Patrick Nelson said, "The Irish FA Board gave its full backing and I’m delighted we have again secured Ian’s services. He is the right man to navigate the challenges ahead as well as being a great ambassador for the organisation.”
