Tranmere Rovers manager Ronnie Moore has signed a new two-and-a-half year contract with the club.

Ronnie returned to Tranmere as manager in March last year.

He took over a team that had won just once in 20 games in 2011-12 - and immediately turned the club’s fortunes around, guiding Rovers away from the relegation zone to a top half finish and receiving a Manager of the Month nomination in the process.

He reshaped his squad over the summer and led Rovers to a 12-game unbeaten run at the start of 2012-13, taking the club to the top of npower League One and being named Manager of the Month in August and September.

Rovers have been top of the league for most of the season and also reached the third round of the FA Cup.

Since he rejoined Rovers as manager, the club has picked up 78 points from 42 league games.

Assistant manager John McMahon, goalkeeping coach Dave Timmins and physiotherapist Gregg Blundell have also signed new two-and-a-half year deals.

Chairman Peter Johnson said: "I’m delighted Ronnie and his coaching staff have extended their contracts with the club.

“Ronnie did a fantastic job at the end of last season and has done an even better job this season.

“It has been a really exciting season so far and hopefully we’re halfway towards achieving something very special.

“We have seen some fantastic football this season and some great victories over clubs with resources a lot greater than our own."

Mr Johnson continued: “He has made some astute signings and he has formed a squad of players that works exceptionally hard for each other.

“It is a very long time since the club had such a good start to the season and Ronnie and his staff deserve a lot of praise for that.

"But I know they are determined to make sure it continues throughout the season.”

During a press conference at the club this morning, Ronnie said: "I'd like to thank the chairman and the board of directors for their support, as well as our fans who have been brilliant since I've been back.

"It's great when people have faith in you. The chairman and club have the faith and belief in me to do the job.

"I think it's fantastic the way things have gone. There's been no magic wand, everyone here has had a big input into where we are.

"We've got a great squad here who are all pushing in the right direction. Without the same level of effort and determination, plus a bit of luck, hopefully it will be a successful season for us.

"Without the players, we would not be where we are.

"The players are like the Dirty Dozen. They roll their sleeves up and get on with the job.

"We are a threat to everybody in the league and don't fear anybody. There are 17 games to go this season, and the hardwork begins."