Paston commits to Phoenix

There was more good news for Wellington Phoenix fans today with goalkeeper Mark Paston confirming he will be with the club again next season after signing a one-year deal.

The All Whites' custodian, who had an outstanding Hyundai A-League season, joins fellow New Zealand international Glen Moss, signed from Gold Coast United, to give the Phoenix arguably the strongest goalkeeping line-up in the competition.

"I feel I've still got plenty to offer and am looking forward to next season already," Paston said.

"Glen and myself have been vying for the goalkeeping spot at the club before, as well as with the All Whites, and it will be good to have such strong opposition for the position."

The pair will get a chance to size each other up when they go into the All Whites camp on Saturday to prepare for games against Honduras and El Salvador as a lead in to the OFC World Cup qualifying tournament in the Solomon Islands.

"The timing of these games is good for me because I think if you have too long off between seasons the body can relax a bit too much," Paston said.

"It will be a good lead in to pre-season training, though I will have to take a couple of weeks break for a minor operation to take screws out of my leg."

Phoenix head coach Ricki Herbert is delighted to get the deal to retain Paston over the line.

"Mark had a fantastic season and it was important to keep him at the club," Herbert said.

"The competition between Mark and Glen has always been hard-fought and I can see that continuing.

"It is great to see two Kiwi boys who have excelled in the A-League at our club."

RUSSELL GRAY

MEDIA MANAGER

0212770218