BRIAN RICE will be the man tasked with returning Alloa to the Championship after he committed his future to the club.

Rice, who joined the Wasps after Barry Ferguson's departure, has completely transformed the mood of the club and avoided a relegation battle by securing their place in cinch League One for next season.

The former Hamilton manager has made a good start to life at the Indodrill, picking up 14 points from a possible 27 in a nine game run which included trips to league winners Cove Rangers, promotion hopefuls Queen's Park and several of the teams in danger of slipping into the relegation play offs.

Speaking on the club's official website, Rice said: “I’ve spoke recently on how much I’ve loved the club, I’ve taken it to my heart.

"Everyone at the club has been fantastic from the staff, the players, the supporters right down to Joyce, the tea lady.

"It’s ‘all as one’ and that’s the way I like it.

"It’s been a tough week for me as my dad died but I’m delighted to get it done and the hard work starts now.”

Mike Mulraney, Alloa Athletic chairman, added: “I’m sure I speak for everyone at the club when I say we are delighted on the two year extension of Brian’s contract.

"Our desire to have an extended contract was to reflect the outstanding work that Brian has done to date and the fact that he’s instantly fit into the system we have at the Indodrill.

"I’m sure everyone at the club and all the fans will agree that Brian has been and will continue to be a great asset to Alloa Athletic.

"We look forward to the next two years under Brian’s leadership.“

Alloa's season ends tomorrow with the visit of Montrose. A win for the Wasps, combined with a loss or draw for Falkirk, would see them finish fifth in the table.