Matthew Tipton signs five-year contract at Portadown

The 40-year-old took over at the Ports in 2018 and led the club to the Championship last season.

Tipton said: “It goes without saying I’m delighted that the club has seen fit to reward myself with this deal.

“I’m more impressed in the vision that the board is showing and the way that they see the club moving forward.

“This ambition and foresight is what attracted myself and David to the club just over three years ago and has only intensified since we’ve been here. Whilst I’m loathed to talk about journeys I feel that we are on the start of something special with this young squad and I want to develop the whole club into a more professional setup,” he added.

“The fact I’m now going to be full-time and based at the ground on a daily basis will also help to build better relationships with businesses, schools and the general public of Portadown and the surrounding areas.

“I want to place on record my appreciation to all of the players and backroom staff who are helping to move us all forward and putting up with my constant demands to improve.

“Finally to the fans who have supported the club through thick and thin we can’t wait to get you back in the stadium with hopefully something to cheer.”

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