Soccer: Herbert signs new two year Phoenix deal

APNZ

11 Nov, 2011 06:55 AM3 mins to read

Ricki Herbert has penned a new deal with the Wellington Phoenix. Photo / Getty Images

Ricki Herbert has penned a new deal with the Wellington Phoenix which could see him remain with the club for another four years.

Herbert's previous deal under Terry Serepisos, signed after guiding the All Whites to three draws at last year's World Cup, was until the end of the 2012/13 season but he's agreed terms with the new owners on a new two-year deal, with a two-year option on football-related matters. That could see him remain as coach or take on a more over-arching role like a director of football.

Herbert's been with the club since their conception in 2007 and it hasn't always been easy - he's reportedly owed more than $100,000 in wages by Serepisos. But the new Welnix group of owners have bold plans and it convinced Herbert to commit to Wellington.

"We wanted to lock Ricki in as soon as possible as he has done a terrific job for the Phoenix," Phoenix chairman Rob Morrison said. "We have a long-term view for the club and this helps us to achieve that.

"When we took over, our main aim was to create stability and plan for the future. Sometimes you have to get away from the day-to-day running of a company, be it in the business sector or sporting arena and look to the future.

"We are aware results on the field are important, but so is building a structure upon which success can be founded. It is important that we get things right."

Herbert said the new contract meant he could now look ahead with certainty.

"The main thing is the future of the Wellington Phoenix Football Club. That is assured, and we can look ahead and build on what we have achieved over the first four years," Herbert said.

"The vision the owners have for the club is encouraging and I look forward to being a part of making it successful.

"We've had a tough start with injuries and suspensions but we have a good, close-knit bunch of players and I expect them to continue to show the character and determination that has seen the club make the playoffs in the last two seasons."

The Phoenix face a battle to make the playoffs this season after a difficult start to their new campaign.

The financial troubles in the final stages of Serepisos' reign put them on the back foot from the start and the new owners have taken a cautious approach to player signings as they work to ensure the club is stable. That has all been compounded by a number of injuries and suspensions.