Morpeth Town boss Craig Lynch explains decision to sign new long-term deal at Craik Park

Morpeth Town boss Craig Lynch has expressed delight at having put pen to paper on a new three-and-a-half year contract extension at Craik Park.

Alongside assistant James Armstrong, the first team manager has committed his long-term future to the Highwaymen, and will now add to his impressive tally of games with the club, having recently celebrated his 250th outing in the dugout.

Reflecting on his decision to sign a new deal, Lynch said: “I’ve been here eight years – there’s not much I’ve not seen! I’ve been part of a lot of highs and unfortunately some lows.

“I feel that both myself and the club, especially Ken [Beattie, Chairman], have shown each other a lot of loyalty over this time when other people may have walked away.

“I really still do believe, even within the circumstances, that Morpeth is the best place for me to keep learning and developing as a manager.

“Shawzy [Steven Shaw, Football Operations Manager] got me to the club. I’ve known him over 10 years and with James coming in as my assistant with nearly 20 years of friendship – there’s not a better two people to continue this journey with.

“There’s going to be tough and troubling times but I’ve always taken challenges and faced them – this isn’t one I was going to walk away from.

“I have a real affection for the club and there’s a lot of people who share that as well, fans who have followed Morpeth for many, many years. At the moment, we don’t know the severity of where we are at so there could be some hard times but also good times; patience is going to be key from everyone. We need everyone’s support more than ever now.

“Signing these contracts was us showing we are here and hopefully we can give a level of stability on the football side, for the club, players, and fans. Wherever and whatever it takes, we are going to stabilise the situation and hopefully we can still deliver on the pitch.”

For his part, Armstrong - who joined Morpeth not long after Lynch assumed the role of manager - added: “I love the club and like a challenge – I know how much hard work has gone into it by everybody and I really want to be a part of it. I will continue to give my all for the club – we want to do all we can to help.

“We’ll continue to gain valuable experience, and learn and grow as individuals, and collectively as a management group. We hope the team does us all proud on the pitch which I’m sure they will.”