The former Matildas mentor, whose controversial axing became a subject of national debate, has impressed his new bosses since taking charge a month ago in his maiden gig with a senior men’s team.
It’s understood he has already been aiding the recruitment drive for next season, determining who should be allowed to go and which players the club should target.
Stajcic’s current assistant Nahuel Arrarte, his former right hand man with the Matildas, will continue to ride shotgun, ending his role as NPL outfit Marconi’s technical director.
Mariners CEO Shaun Mielekamp declined to comment on Stajcic’s status beyond this season when contacted by The World Game.
But he did say: “At the moment we are working away and focusing on the remaining three games of the season (Melbourne Victory away, Western Sydney Wanderers at home and away to Melbourne City),” Mielekamp said.
“There is a really good relationship forming with the coach and we will see what happens in the future.
“Alen has done a great job in his caretaking role in helping the club start preparations for next season.”
Stajcic - the club’s sixth coach in five seasons - got off to a winning start in the F3 derby against Newcastle Jets, for only the stricken club’s second victory of a dismal season.
Home defeats against Adelaide United (1-0) and premiers-elect Perth Glory (3-0) have followed.
But the consensus has been that, having arrived on the back of a shattering 8-2 home loss against Wellington Phoenix, he has begun to steady the ship.
That Wellington whacking sealed the fate of predecessor Mike Mulvey, as the club headed for their third wooden spoon in four seasons.
With Stajcic and the club set to commit to each other long term, it’s understood several players have agreed to contract extensions on the back of that accord, with at least three announcements to be made imminently.
