Basford United owner Chris Munroe is delighted to inform the club and it’s fanbase that the contract of manager Mark Clifford has been extended until at least May 2024.

Commenting, Munroe states: “I am delighted to break this news and agree an extended deal for Cliffy.

“The first priority of an owner is locking down your manager if you rate him, and then we can, as a collective, plot - not just this remaining 2022-23 campaign - but also on 2023-24.

“I rate Cliffy very highly and his business and community acumen fit perfectly with my ambitions and how we evolve our club. I have the same high regard extended to Cliffy’s management team of Wayne Scott and Dave Frecklington, as well as the entirety of our high-quality playing group.

“Therefore my wife, Jo, and I are delighted to commence this process and provide our first team certainty in our current planning and future aspirations.

“Cliffy and I have talked at length about our strategy going forward that encompasses our first team, commercial advances, pathway, and expectations to take this club into the National League before Jo and I sail away into the sunset.

“I believe this year we have made great strides and are continuing this journey on all fronts throughout the whole club. From the first team to ladies, girls to academy, as well as youth and junior phases, this continued expansion is ready to kick on to the next phase.

“This, though, is the first key cog secured as part of the process, and we will now look to appoint a commercially aware new Club Chairman in the new year, to mirror off-the-field activities with what we are delivering on the pitch.

“This season has had some immense highs so far, such as a history making FA Cup run and a current league position that has us within striking distance of the play-off places - our Ambers are in great shape!

“However, the club is under no illusions of a brutal run of January fixtures against teams vying for promotion. It will be tough stretch but with our growing and loyal support base then we will give it our best shot."

On signing the deal, the boss added: “I’m delighted to sign an extension and it was an absolute no brainer for me.

“This squad is evolving, and our style is really starting to come through. I’ve got a great management team that support me, and this extension is testament to the work we do as a team.

“Chris and I have spoken several times in the past few weeks and it’s clear that our aspirations align. We know we still have some work to do but are fully aware to the challenges that face us and I’m very excited about the future at Basford United Football Club.”