Philippe Montanier is staying as Real Sociedad coach.

The 47-year-old former goalkeeper was prised away from Valenciennes last summer to join Real, who went on to finish 12th in the Primera Division, five points above the relegation zone.

Despite having one year left on his contract, Real took the step of confirming Montanier would stay in charge for another campaign.

He had faced criticism of his tactics from a number of supporters, but the club confirmed in a statement: "The board of directors of Real Sociedad have decided that the coach Philippe Montanier will remain in office for another season. The French trainer will therefore carry out his second year at the club, at which he arrived in July 2011."