Defender Steven Taylor will stay in the capital for another season, penning a one-year extension to remain with Wellington Phoenix for the 2021/22 season.
Taylor, 35, has been a key cog in the Phoenix's defence since he arrived in New Zealand three seasons ago, seeing the A-League's only Kiwi side finish in the playoffs in the last two seasons.
After a short stint with Oshida FC in the Indian Super League, Taylor rejoined the Phoenix for the end of the 2020/21 A-League season, making an obvious difference to the side's defence.
In the eight games this season in which Taylor started and played 80 minutes, the Phoenix are unbeaten, with four wins and four draws.
"Coming back [to the Phoenix] was a no-brainer for me, I want to be around these guys again so I'm delighted to be here next season," says Taylor.
"I had a good chat with the manager [Ufuk Talay] and he's been class all the way through; I love the style of play that we play, I love the Phoenix fans and the boys in the squad.
"I've been very fortunate that the team's performances since I've been here have been on par with last season; the stats speak for themselves, but the main focus has been to get into the playoffs where this club should be.
"You look at the team this season and we've always been in every game - the quality is always there with the lads, it's just a matter of building consistency, confidence and momentum."
Manager Talay also hailed Taylor's re-signing, recognising his influence as one of the Phoenix's key players.
"He's someone we know we can rely on to bring it 100 percent every match and solidify our backline - our defence and decision-making is simply better when he plays.
"Retaining Taylor is key for us going forward so I'm happy to see him return to the Phoenix next season, and I know the fans will be happy to see him back."
After missing the A-League's 2020/21 playoffs, the Phoenix finish their season against Macarthur FC on Friday.
