Chippa United coach Dan Malesela has been given a vote of confidence by team management after ensuring that premiership football will continue to be played in Eastern Cape next season.
The Chilli Boys received a hero's welcome in Port Elizabeth on Sunday after a goalless draw away to Free State Stars in their final league match of the season guaranteed their stay in the top flight.
Chippa finished 13th with 28 points.
Chippa chief operations officer Lukhanyo Mzinzi confirmed the head coach would be part of the team next season.
"A draw never felt this good," Mzinzi said.
"There were no celebrations last night. The coach stayed with his players at the hotel and we had a chat about the next season.
"The coach has a three-year contract with the team, so he is coming back next season. He is our coach, so we have to discuss a lot of things, including player recruitment.
"Being the only PSL club in Eastern Cape comes with its own pressure. We are a young club, but we know that the people of this province love us. So we might have to challenge for at least one trophy next season because they can't wait for too long. We are always mindful of that," Mzinzi said.
A small group of loyal Chilli Boys supporters sang and cheered the players at the airport.
"It says a lot," Malesela said.
"It says people love you and appreciate the job you are doing.
"We owe it to these guys, we owe it to Port Elizabeth and the people of Eastern Cape to have this team here. This is why you need to have this team here," he said.
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