Svensson signs new deal

6:11am Saturday 16th August 2008

MICHAEL Svensson has signed a new one-year contract at Saints following his miraculous return from knee injury.

The skipper put pen to paper at St Mary's last night and said: "I'm very happy that everything is now sorted and I can concentrate on playing.

"I'm looking forward to our first home game of the new season against Birmingham.

"I really believe in the new team and Jan Poortvliet's style of play "I have always remained positive throughout my rehabilitation period and the knee feels fine after last week's match.

"I'm delighted to be able to lead the team out as captain and I'm optimistic that we can build the foundations for a great season.

"We have a lot of talented young players and I have a positive belief in what we can all achieve as a team."

PLC chairman Rupert Lowe added: "I'm delighted that Michael has signed this deal and I look forward to working with him to restore the club's fortunes.

"It's doubly pleasing that he has also taken on the role of club captain and can now focus fully on the task of guiding the club back to the Premier League.

"Michael played a big part in our success in the Premier League and his injury affected us in a big way.

"His partnership with Claus Lundekvam was an outstanding one."