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Darrell Clarke previously managed non-league outfit Salisbury City

Bristol Rovers manager Darrell Clarke has signed a new five-year contract with the League One club.

The 39-year-old led the club to consecutive promotions from the National League to League One before a 10th-place finish in 2016-17.

After assisting former boss John Ward, Clarke took charge in March 2014 prior to relegation to non-league that term.

His side finished seven points off the play-off places in May, in their first season back in the third tier.

He had signed a three-year deal to 2019 in May 2016, after turning down a formal approach from Championship side Leeds United.

"We were very keen for him to remain in charge and to build on the success he has brought to the club in a very short time," club president Wael Al Qadi told the club website. external-link

"It was important, we felt, to ensure we had the man we wanted at the helm. With Darrell as manager, we feel that the club is in a stable position and we are confident that he will continue to move us forward."

Clarke added: "I would like to thank the club's owners and directors for giving me the opportunity to continue, long term, to take the club forward and I would also like to thank our amazing fans."