Melbourne Victory has taken the first step towards defending its historic Hyundai A-League treble, with attacking midfielder Nick Ward extending his contract with the club for a further two years.
Melbourne Victory has taken the first step towards defending its historic Hyundai A-League treble, with attacking midfielder Nick Ward extending his contract with the club for a further two years.
Ward, 23, was a key member of Melbourne Victory-s midfield in 2008/09, establishing himself alongside Socceroos Billy Celeski and Tom Pondeljak and scoring two goals in the process.
After missing the opening six rounds of the season through injury, Ward featured in all of Melbourne Victory-s remaining matches, including last Saturday-s Hyundai A-League 2009 Grand Final.
Melbourne Victory Football Operations Manager Gary Cole said the club was delighted to keep Ward, who arrived at the club from English side Queens Park Rangers in late 2007.
“It-s fantastic that we-ve reached an agreement with Nick in what is a great signing for everyone involved,” Cole said.
“Nick firmly established himself in the team after overcoming his injury problems and was an important part of our successful run to the Premiers Plate and Champions Trophy.
“Nick-s body is now in the best shape it-s ever been, which is also a credit to the hardworking sports science, sports medicine and strength and conditioning elements of the club.”
Ward was just as excited to extend his stay with Melbourne Victory.
“It-s exciting to secure my future here in Melbourne after such a successful season,” Ward said.
“I-m really happy to be part of this team, playing alongside such good players.
“Hopefully we can repeat our efforts next season and also do well in the AFC Champions League.
“I didn-t want to go anywhere else in Australia; Melbourne Victory is the club I want to be at.
“Now that my future is here I can do further work with the medical staff and get myself even stronger moving forward.”
Ward was Melbourne Victory-s inaugural under-23 marquee player in 2008/09, but has now outgrown his status.
