1 Jan 2020

Taylor and Rufer extend stay with Phoenix

10:28 am on 1 January 2020

Wellington Phoenix have re-signed captain Steven Taylor and vice-captain Alex Rufer.

Phoenix defender Steven Taylor thanks the fans.

Steven Taylor. Photo: PHOTOSPORT

Taylor has extended his contract for two years and Rufer for three; meaning they'll be at the club until at least the end of the 2021-22 A-League season.

Coach Ufuk Talay said both players bring important qualities and skill sets to the Phoenix.

"Taylor is a natural leader and a very influential player for us, he leads by example both on and off the field - he brings an abundance of experience to the club and obviously he's an important player for us moving forward with the direction this club is heading.

"Rufer is a young talented player who has captaincy qualities as well; he had a great season last year and this season he's been very good and influential for us - and he's still a young player so it's great to have him committed to a three-year deal with us."

"Obviously these are two very important, core players of the group - and maintaining our players creates consistency and builds the club for the future, which is vital.

"It's great that our players want to be here and help build towards something special; they have a lot of belief in what we're trying to achieve, not just short-term but long-term as well."