Caley Jags delight as Foran signs deal until 2017

CALEY Thistle have today (Monday) been handed a massive boost with the news that captain Richie Foran has pledged his future to the Scottish Premiership club by signing a three-year deal.

The Dubliner was out of contract at the end of the season but now has agreed a contract taking him through to May 2017.

With Terry Butcher and Maurice Malpas leaving their management roles to join rivals HIbs last week, it was feared that Foran would also follow them, since Butcher in particular had played such a key role in his career at Motherwell and ICT.

However, fresh from signing his deal, Foran, who ruled out following Butcher into the role of boss, said: "Inverness is a special place with a very special football club and I'm delighted to commit my future to the club.

"Duncan Shearer and Scott Kellacher are doing a wonderful job, putting together first-class training sessions and we're all looking forward to the St Johnstone game on Saturday and beyond. In due course I intend to study for my coaching badges, but I'm enjoying my season and my target to is to play well for this club for as long as I can.

"I've had a marvellous five years with Caley Thistle and I've been made to feel very wanted. The chairman and board and the supporters have been very supportive and now that everything is arranged I can focus on trying to help the team to have as successful a season as possible.

"The spirit among the players is very positive, they're a great bunch of lads, and the motivation levels are high."

Club chairman Kenny Cameron said: "We're extremely pleased to have been able to secure Richie's future with us. He is an inspirational leader on and off the park and is widely respected.

"Richie is a winner and it's important that we have ensured that he remains here to continue his important contribution not only this season but in seasons to come. I'm sure this will be very good news for our fans."

Foran skippered the Caley Thistle side which regained its SPL status at the first attempt in 2010. He has scored 38 goals in 155 appearances for the club since signing from Southend United in January 2009.