Portstewart chairman Alan Dempsey insists handing manager David McDaid a new two-year contract “reflects the club’s confidence” as the former Larne striker looks to keep building on a sensational start to life in the dugout.

McDaid, who was promoted from his position as Portstewart assistant to the top job after John Gregg’s departure, has won eight of his first nine league matches in charge, including Saturday’s 9-0 triumph over Banbridge Town.

The Seahawks have scored 31 goals – nine more than any other National Conference League Premier Division side – and also sealed progress to the Irish Cup’s fourth round, where they’ll face Aquinas later this month.

Former Ballymena United and Glenavon striker McDaid is already establishing a reputation as one of the brightest young managers in Northern Ireland with Portstewart moving quickly to tie him down.

placeholder image — Portstewart manager David McDaid (left) with chairman Alan Dempsey. (Photo by Portstewart FC)

"On behalf of Portstewart FC, I am delighted to announce that David has committed his future to the club by agreeing a new two-year contract as Manager,” said Dempsey. “Since taking on the role, David has made a hugely positive impact, overseeing an excellent run of results while bringing renewed belief, togetherness and ambition to the squad.

"His commitment, leadership and passion for the club have been evident both on and off the pitch.

“This reflects the club’s confidence in David and the progress being made under his leadership.

"We believe he has the qualities, experience and ambition to continue building on the strong foundations already established as we look to take Portstewart FC forward, both on and off the pitch.

“We are delighted to have David committed to the club for the next two seasons and look forward to what we can achieve together."

McDaid remains registered as a player for Portstewart, but his only appearance of the season so far was in a 9-0 Craig Memorial Cup win over Tobermore United – the 35-year-old scored just two minutes after introducing himself off the bench.

Having penned an extended deal, McDaid is not only looking to achieve immediate success, but is also building for the future.

"I’m delighted to commit my future to Portstewart for another two years,” said McDaid. “Since coming into the club, I’ve really enjoyed the challenge, and I feel we are starting to build something positive here.

“First of all, I want to thank Alan and everyone at the club for the trust and belief they’ve shown in me. That means a lot, and I’m looking forward to continuing the work we've started.

“One of the most pleasing things since coming in has been the buy-in from the players. Their attitude, willingness to learn and commitment to what we're trying to do has been fantastic.

“I also want to give a special mention to the coaching and backroom staff. The work they put in behind the scenes is massive, and everything we do goes hand in hand.

"I'm fortunate to have good people around me who share the same ideas, standards and commitment to moving the club forward.

“For me, it's not just about this season. It's about building something sustainable, continuing to improve the squad, developing young players and creating a club that everyone involved can be proud of.

“I'm ambitious and I want to keep pushing myself and the club forward. There's still a lot of hard work ahead of us, but I feel we're moving in the right direction.

“I'm really enjoying my time here, and I'm looking forward to continuing to work with everyone at the club and hopefully giving the supporters plenty to shout about.”