Soccer: Five re-sign with Phoenix

Tim Brown is one of five players to re-sign with the Wellington Phoenix. Photo / Getty Images

The Wellington Phoenix unveiled some much-needed positive news after re-signing five players beyond this season.

New Zealand internationals Tim Brown and Ben Sigmund have both signed for another two seasons, while their international teammate and goalkeeper Mark Paston will play on at the club for at least one more year.

Also back for another season is British striker Chris Greenacre while young Australian marksman Mirjan Pavlovic has extended his contract by another two seasons.

It brings to 11 the number of players who will continue in amber and black next year, a welcome boost given the on and off-field problems of late.

The Phoenix have suffered four heavy losses in their last six matches and languish in seventh place while the financial stability of owner Terry Serepisos has come under public scrutiny this week.

For Greenacre the move from England to Wellington last year has been a highlight of an impressive career and he was keen to extend his stay.

"I'm absolutely delighted. It's great to know where you future lies and thankfully it's here in Wellington," he said.

"I've loved every minute of being here. It's a fantastically well-run club. The playing group is so tight-knit and I'm thankful Terry Serepisos and (coach) Ricki Herbert want me to remain part of that."

Herbert said the re-signing of the five players was excellent for the club.

"As we found in the third season, stability is the key to success. I'm delighted we've been able to retain these players."

Phoenix players now contracted beyond the current season are: Brown, Sigmund, Paston, Greenacre, Pavlovic, Manny Muscat, Leo Bertos, Paul Ifill, Daniel Cortes, Vince Lia and captain Andrew Durante.

- NZPA