CONFIRMED: Keith Curle signs new contract as Cobblers boss

Keith Curle has signed a new two-year contract as manager of the Cobblers.

The 56-year-old, who initially joined on an 18-month deal when replacing Dean Austin in October 2018, memorably led the Cobblers back to League One through the play-offs this season, clinching his first promotion as a manager.

Curle took over when Northampton were 21st in League One and guided them to 16th place in his first season. He followed that with a seventh-placed finish during the shortened 2019/20 campaign before masterminding wins over Cheltenham and Exeter in the play-offs.

The former Manchester City, Sheffield United and Wolverhampton defender, who won three caps for England, also oversaw Northampton's best run in the FA Cup for 16 years, beating League One Burton 4-2 and drawing 0-0 with Championship outfit Derby County en route to the fourth round.

Curle has been expected to sign a new deal for a while and that news was finally confirmed on Monday afternoon.

"Keith has made a huge impact and he fully deserves his new contract," said chairman Kelvin Thomas.

"In a short space of time he has instilled a real professionalism, a drive and a unity in the playing squad that supporters can really relate to and he has given the club a playing identity.

"The first-team squad have moved forward in leaps and bounds both individually and collectively under Keith, while we should also not overlook the way Keith and his staff have really brought in to the spirit of the club and the way they have and continue to help the supporters and the wider community.

"We are delighted with the progress we are making and we are looking forward to the challenge of adapting to play at a higher level under Keith.

"We are really pleased Keith has signed this new contract as our planning for life in League One continues."