Dutch midfielder Roly Bonevacia, a standout in his first season in the A-League, has signed a contract extension with the Wellington Phoenix.
Bonevacia, 23, has turned down interest from other A-League clubs and committed himself to the Phoenix until the end of the 2016-17 season.
"I felt comfortable from the moment I arrived at the Phoenix and I like to think I am a loyal person," Bonevacia said.
"Also, I think we are building something special at the club, something that hasn't been done before at the Phoenix."
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The Phoenix topped the table late in the season before fading and were then eliminated in the first week of the playoffs.
"Being so close whetted my appetite and I really want to win the league," he said.
A product of the Ajax Academy who went on to play in the Dutch first division, he originally signed for the Phoenix on a two-year deal.
Phoenix coach Ernie Merrick is delighted that Bonevacia, used initially as a defensive midfielder, before taking a more attacking role as the campaign went on, will be extending his stay.
"Roly has been something of a revelation in his first season with us," Merrick said.
"For a player of his pedigree to commit himself for another two seasons is a feather in the club's cap."