Ian Baraclough signs a two-year deal...but it's not good news for Derry City fans hoping to see him at the Brandywell

Ian Baraclough is one man who won't be in contention for the vacant Derry City manager's job, after he signed anew two-year deal with the Irish Football Association today.

The former Sligo Rovers boss has been linked with the role ever since the news of Kenny Shiels' departure, but having finished second only to Spain in qualifying for the U21 European Championships, he has opted to continue his work with the finest young players from the North.

“This is the first time I have managed a team with a younger element and I have really enjoyed it," he said. "There is a challenge with a constant turnover of players, however we introduced quite a few younger players during our last campaign and that will be invaluable going forward,” he said.

Derry City are still accepting applications for the role, but former Candy Stripes Declan Devine and Paul Hegarty remain as contenders.