Phoenix young gun signs contract extension

New Zealand All Whites international Alex Rufer has signed a new one-year Hyundai A-League contract with Wellington Phoenix.

The Phoenix Academy graduate has committed to another year with the Phoenix after appearing in 11 games in the 2017/18 Season.

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“I am very happy to have signed a new deal and I can’t wait to help the team this year,” Rufer said on Monday.

“We have a fantastic vibe at the club and I wanted to be a part of that.”

Rufer debuted in February 2014, coming on in the 3-2 away win against Newcastle Jets.

And he’ll hope to be in line to face them again in the season opener of the Hyundai A-League 2018/19 Season.

Rufer has been impressed with the impact new coach Mark Rudan has had since his arrival, confirming his influence on the club was a major factor in his decision to stay with the club.

“Mark is the type of coach you want to fight for on the pitch because he instills belief in his players,” Rufer said.

Alex Rufer

Rudan is happy to have secured Rufer for another season and was impressed by what he has seen in the pre-season camp on the Gold Coast.

“He has shown me that he is willing to learn and he’s still a young player wanting to improve,” the Phoenix boss said.

“I’m very happy to have him here this season and I can see him really developing in the squad we have.”

Rufer could be in contention for a spot in the starting line-up against Bentleigh Greens this Tuesday 7th August in the FFA Cup Round of 32.

Mark Rudan