Haverfordwest County AFC are delighted to confirm that First Team Manager, Nicky Hayen, has signed a one-year extension to his contract to take him through to the end of the 2023-24 season.

Hayen, who arrived from Belgium at the start of the January, has had a hugely positive impact on the team, which has seen us climb from the relegation zone to be competing towards the top of the JD Cymru Premier Play-Off Conference.

The 41-year-old, who played over 250 games in the Belgian Pro League in a 15-year playing career – primarily with boyhood club Sint-Truiden – has led the team to an impressive six victories from his first 10 games in charge.

All told, the Bluebirds have picked up 19 points from a possible 30 since Hayen took over, enough to move the team into a position where, heading into the final game of the season, we have a chance of claiming top spot in the Conference.

Life under Hayen began in perfect fashion with a 2-0 win over Cefn Druids at The Rock at the end of February, and this result would be followed by victories over Barry Town United and Aberystwyth Town, either side of a second success over the Druids.

Since then, further victories over the Ancients and the Barry have come to help boost our league position, with Friday’s win against the Dragons – which saw County play some eye-catching, attacking football – mathematically securing our place in the Cymru Premier for next season.

Speaking on his new deal, a delighted Hayen said: “Since the day I arrived I had a really good feeling. Everyone in the club was immediately on board. In a short time, we accomplished our objective to stay in the league. 

“I have the feeling that we can build further on this, and try to get the maximum out of this group and club.”

Chairman Rob Edwards also shared his feelings on the good news, saying: “I am delighted to add a further year to Nicky’s contract. His impact has been incredible and has taken us to the brink of a very unlikely play-off spot – where relegation was a real possibility upon his arrival.

“He has immediately gained the respect of the players, coaches and fans, and I am excited to build a team with Nicky at the helm for at least the next two years as we look to achieve our ambitions.”

#NickyStays