AFC Fylde Chairman David Haythornthwaite admits there was ‘never any doubt’ that manager Dave Challinor would be offered a new contract.

The Coasters boss has penned a new three-year deal with the club ahead of the new National League season and Haythornthwaite insists Challinor is still the man to take the club forward.

Haythornthwaite said: “I am delighted we have been able to extend Dave’s contract for another two years and to three in total. There was never any doubt.

“We have never once discussed the managers position and why would we? I think it brings the continuity and stability we need in a very turbulent industry and at the same time lets Dave know we have confidence in him to get us out if this division.

“We have worked together for six years now and and have a great working relationship. I know Dave loves this club as much as I do and it shows in everything he does day in day out.

“The fact he is now the fourth longest serving manager in the top five divisions I think says a lot about Dave and a lot about the club.

“I intend to give Dave the resources he needs to succeed and I am confident there is no one better qualified out there to lead us to the promised land.”