Dundalk have moved to ensure the future two of this season's influential figures by extending the contracts of Ciaran Kilduff and Robbie Benson.
The Premier Division champions broke new ground this year by becoming the first Irish team in history to earn a point in the group stage of a major European competition. Shortly after this, they became the first Irish team to win a game at the same stage.
Benson and Kilduff have been influential for Stephen Kenny's side, not only with their goals but their efforts in helping the team compete on all fronts this season.
Benson will now enter his second season at the club having joined ahead of the 2016 campaign.
"I am very happy to stay at the club," he told the club's official website. "When Stephen asked me to sit down I think we were both pleased to get the deal done because I am very here. Stephen was very happy with me this year too and hopefully going forward we can recreate what we did this year and make it better too.
"European football has been amazing. I can’t wait until Thursday. It has been the highlight of all our careers I’d imagine so far. Hopefully it’s not the end of our European journey. We want to progress to the last 32. It’s going to be difficult but we are confident and looking forward to it."
Ciaran Kilduff celebrating the winner against Maccabi Tel-Aviv at Tallaght Stadium. Image: ©INPHO/Morgan Treacy
Kilduff has also extended his contract for another year after joining the club from St. Patrick’s Athletic in July 2015.
He made an immediate impact having scoring goals in the team's double success last season and scored a further 13 occasions this season.
His goals including the equaliser against AZ Alkmaar in the Netherlands in their Europa League group stage opener and the winner against Maccabi Tel-Aviv at Tallaght Stadium.
"I am really delighted to re-sign," he said. "It was something in my contract here that there was the option of another year here so I am happy to get it down on paper and be here for another year.
"Over the last three years the club has been the most successful in Ireland with the trophies that we have won and everything in Europe. It’s a great place to be. Going forward it’s good to be part of and I wanted to stay here.
"It’s the nicest way to finish off the season. Going to Tel-Aviv with a chance to finish off the current year going into the next stage. We are looking forward to it and hopefully we can get the job done."
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