Roly Bonevacia flew to Holland today but the good news is that he will be back in Wellington for at least the next two Hyundai A-League seasons.
Before leaving for a family holiday at home the 23-year-old signed a contract extension that will see him playing for the Phoenix till May 31 2017.
Bonevacia, a product of the famous Ajax Academy and a Dutch first division player for three years, made a big impression in his first season on this side of the world and there was interest from other A-League clubs in signing him but he opted to commit himself to the Phoenix.
“I felt comfortable from the moment I arrived at the Phoenix and I like to think I am a loyal person,” Bonevacia said before boarding his flight.
“Also I think we are building something special at the club; something that hasn’t been done before at the Phoenix.
“We had a fantastic season and while it was disappointing to slip up over the last few games I believe we will learn a lot from that and come back next season stronger.
“Being so close whetted my appetite and I really want to win the league. If we do that I wouldn’t feel uncomfortable about going closer to home, but for now I am staying to help bring the championship to Wellington.”
Phoenix coach Ernie Merrick is delighted that Bonevacia has extended his contract.
“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.
“Roly came to us as a defensive midfielder, but he became more attacking as the season progressed and I believe he will become a key attacking player and goal scorer next season.”
