ANDY BISHOP has been granted his wish after being confirmed as Southport's permanent manager following an impressive spell in caretaker charge.
Bishop, 33, was handed the reins after Dino Maamria's shock exit in March and the Sandgrounders have lost just once in his seven matches at the helm.
That run has seen Southport climb up to 15th and out of relegation trouble, convincing chairman Charlie Clapham that Bishop was the right man for the job.
The former Walsall, York City, Bury and Wrexham striker is taking his first steps into permanent management and has loved his time in the dugout so far.
Bishop said: “I am delighted to have been given this opportunity. I told the chairman I wanted the job a couple of weeks ago and he has been great to work with.
“All the players have been very positive at a crucial time in the season. I can now build for next season and aim to take us forward.
“I've really enjoyed every aspect of management so far. My target is to improve on this season and let's see where it takes us.
“I've played a lot at this level so I know what it takes. Southport is a club with real potential and ambition.”
Chairman Clapham added: “We have all been impressed with the professional way that Andy has grasped the opportunity. He is hungry and determined and I am looking to work with Andy over the long term.
“I want him to take us forward from a good base. Andy will be one of the youngest managers in senior professional football and I am very pleased that he has taken the opportunity.
“We are craving for stability and Andy can supply us with that and I firmly believe we will have success ahead.”
