Butcher, Malpas agree New Deals

Terry Butcher has signed a contract to keep him at Inverness Caledonian Thistle until the end of season 2010-11.

His assistant Maurice Malpas has also penned a new deal to remain at Tulloch Caledonian Stadium for the same period of time.

The existing contracts of both men expire this summer and club chairman George Fraser said:"We have been speaking behind the scenes to Terry and Maurice and we're extremely pleased to have reached agreement today.

"We feel the timing is right rather than leaving the clock to run down on their contracts before making decisions. With their future guaranteed, they can now focus on persuading players to sign new contracts and on further strengthening the squad for next season.

"We are still in the promotion race and Terry and Maurice have emerged with considerable credit this season in rebuilding the side after the financial disaster of relegation from the SPL and players departing. They had to do a difficult stabilising job and now the directors feel they have earned the opportunity to take the club forward. The continuity will benefit the club."

Terry Butcher, 77 times capped by England , was appointed Caley Thistle manager on January 27, 2009, with Malpas as first team coach. The team was relegated on goal difference by a single goal in May 2009.

Terry Butcher said:"I'm delighted to stay at the club next season -- though my immediate focus is on the fact that we're still very much in the hunt to win back our SPL place this season. It's satisfying that we have the backing of the board.

"I'm delighted that Maurice Malpas has also agreed a contract extension as he's a fantastic person with loads of commitment who's worked extremely hard for the club.

"We knew this season woudn't be easy with the circumstances the club found itself in following relegation. But we're still challenging for the title while at the same time laying down the foundations for the future.

"Confirmation of my extension gives me scope now to take a close look at the whole club and plan on how best to take it forward. We have some very good young players coming through and I want to encourage and develop them as well as bringing new players in.

"My wife and I immensely enjoy living in the Highlands and we've been made extremely welcome in Inverness , so it's anything but a hardship to stay in the area."

Interview with Charles Bannerman (BBC)

---