Wellington Phoenix foundation midfielder Vince Lia will stretch his tenure at the club to at least nine seasons after signing a two-year contract extension with the A-League club.
Lia was part of the 2007-08 squad who contested their debut season and has gone on to become a regular sight in the middle of the park, playing 131 games.
Australian-born Lia, who crossed the Tasman after two seasons with Melbourne Victory, says securing his future was important at this stage of his career.
He turns 29 next week and wants to be part of a club he believes is making progress under coach Ernie Merrick.
Under Merrick, Lia has been handed to the chance to show the vision and passing game that was largely suppressed under former coach Ricki Herbert, who deployed him primarily as a ball-winner.
Lia admits he is enjoying his best season at the club courtesy of Merrick's positive approach and eagerness to invest in young talent.
"Ernie has changed the mind set and we are playing some good stuff," he said.
"I'm happy with my own form. I got a full pre-season under my belt, I'm seeing more of the ball and am more involved which makes it enjoyable."
"I really wanted to stay here because I think the club is going in the right direction."
A native of Shepparton in Victoria, Lia is looking forward to going "home" on Sunday to play Melbourne Heart.
He says the Phoenix have a point to prove after losing 5-0 to the Heart in Wellington last month.
"A slow start to the season cost us. While we were playing well we weren't scoring goals.
"We have done well to get back into finals contention and with five games left we have to get on a run, starting on Sunday."
