An Early Christmas Present

For some time now, fans have been calling for Grayson to be tied down to a long-term contract with the club following his heroics last season, resulting in the end of 29 years of hurt in the lower reaches of the football league.

Couple that with reported interest from Norwich City, Leicester City and even fierce rivals Burnley and Preston North End in his services, it was always a worry for some fans that 'Larry' might leave for another club - particularly Leicester City where he was a firm fans' favourite in his time there as a player.

His heroics last season saw his reputation grow pretty much overnight, with 2 Manager Of The Month wins, along with the coveted title as best Manager in England - statistically! - beating Jose Mourinho, Rafa Benitez and Sir Alex Ferguson based on his team's fantastic form in Coca Cola League One.

It is therefore fantastic that the news coming out of Bloomfield Road this afternoon is that Larry has signed a new deal until 2010 with the option of a further year.

Just the news the supporters were looking for going into the busy Christmas period and looking forward to the January transfer window, with a few targets already lined up to improve fortunes on the pitch and push up the table and away from the relegation zone...and those dirty Knobbers!

Click here to join in the debate on the club forum.

Join the Vital Fantasy Football League - its Free!