Adelaide United utility Cam Watson has continued the string of re-signings at the club after becoming the latest player to commit to a new two-year contract.
Adelaide United utility Cam Watson has continued the string of re-signings at the club after becoming the latest player to commit to a new two-year contract.
Watson made his debut for the Reds in August 2010 and has since made 63 appearances although he is yet score a domestic goal.
The 25-year-old, who signed initially with Adelaide as an injury replacement on loan in 2010 before impressing to earn a permanent deal in January 2011, is the fifth player in a month to extend his stay at Hindmarsh Stadium.
The Victorian-born midfielder’s new deal follows the two-year contract extensions of vice-captain Cassio, Argentine forward Jeronimo Neumann, Portuguese winger Fabio Ferreira and bustling striker Bruce Djite.
Watson said his decision to remain a Red was based on wanting keep the majority of the current crop of players together and the promise of an exciting future ahead.
“We’ve got a good group, everyone gets along, we’re doing well and if we can keep a lot of the players together I think we can be successful,” Watson said.
“I think keeping that foundation of a group is important and has been one of the main reasons I want to stay.
“I also enjoy being in Adelaide and I just want it to continue.”
A former Australian under-17 and under-20 representative, Watson said another determining factor to remain with United was down to how content and comfortable he felt in Adelaide.
“Being settled here was big reason that came into it,” Watson said.
“You never close the door to other options but I’ve been really happy here and I think if you’re happy it brings the best out of you.
“I always wanted to stay and I’m just looking forward to the next couple of years.”
After spells in Europe with Portuguese champions FC Porto and Dutch club VVV-Venlo, Watson returned to Australian shores in 2007.
A run of bad luck that included back-to-back knee injuries in 2008 and 2009 coupled with false promises from two A-League clubs forced Watson to spend almost four years in the Victorian Premier League.
But his break eventually came with Adelaide where he has since forged a name for himself and become renowned for his versatility.
Watson has operated as a makeshift right back and winger, while also spending time in his more accustomed position in the centre of midfield.
Adelaide United coach John Kosmina said Watson’s capabilities and impressive character around the club make him a valued member of the squad.
“Cam is our Mr Versatile,” Kosmina said.
“He’s technically very correct, he’s got a great engine and he’s another one who I think has his best football in front of him.
“He can play in a range of positions – he can play as a full back which he’s shown, as well as range of roles in the midfield, and he’s a great guy to have around the club.”