Sigmund extends Phoenix deal

Veteran central defender Ben Sigmund received an early birthday present by renewing his Wellington Phoenix contract for a further A-League season.

Ben Sigmund will miss Wellington's clash with Sydney FC with a suspected concussion. Source: Getty Images

Sigmund, who turns 34 next week, will play in the A-League until at least the end of the 2015-2016 season.

"I thought hard about it and decided I wasn't ready to stop playing just yet," Sigmund, who turns 34 on 3 February, said.

"Actually I feel I've got better with age because I have matured as a player and as a person and Ernie Merrick has had a lot to do with that.

"I feel blessed that he came to the Phoenix when he did or this might not have happened."

Merrick, midway through his second season in charge after replacing Ricki Herbert, is pleased the robust Sigmund is continuing.

He described the former All Whites international as a club legend and iconic character who the supporters can relate to.

"He feels he has never been the most skilful of players but he always gives 100 per cent and is very coachable," Merrick said.

"They say you can't teach an old dog new tricks but Ben has proved that saying wrong. His passing into midfield and to the front players has improved out of sight."

Merrick said Sigmund's combination with captain Andrew Durante at the heart of the defence is pivotal for the fourth-placed New Zealand club, which has conceded four goals in its last seven games to surge into the top four.

Sigmund said his biggest improvement under Merrick has been discipline.

"You don't see me giving away silly free kicks round the box these days or getting cheap yellow cards," he said.