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From Times Online
July 5, 2007

Nelsen pledges future to Rovers

Times Online and Agencies

Ryan Nelsen, the Blackburn Rovers captain, has signed a new five-year contract with the club to keep him at Ewood Park until 2012.

The 29-year-old New Zealand international was plagued by injury in the first half of last season, but returned to lead his side to an FA Cup semi-final and Uefa cup qualification. "I'm delighted for the club and for Ryan," said Mark Hughes, the Blackburn manager. "He's my captain and he will be very influencial in helping to shape the progress of the club."

The centre back joined Rovers from MLS side DC United in the 2005 transfer window and made an immediate impact in the Premiership with his physical presence and defensive composure. He has made 75 appearances for the club, but is yet to score in a competitive match.

Nelsen was born in New Zealand, but moved to America to attend University in North Carolina. He then transferred to Stanford University in California to take up the offer of a football scholarship, where he attracted the attention of DC United. He was twice selected for the MLS All-star team.

"Ryan is a top man on and off the field," said Blackburn chairman John Williams. "The positive impact of this deal cannot be underestimated."

He makes a huge difference and is the most under-rated player in the premiership. He joined us when we were struggling and we ended up in mid-table. Played the entire following season and we ended up 6th. Was injured for half of last season and we ended up struggling without him. Top top player and once of the best buys (free) of all time (along with Brad Friedal and David Bentley).

Chris, London,

An excellent defender and an honest and decent man - you could not hope for a better captain.

Rovers maintain their reputation as a rock-solid, family club many years after Jack Walker laid the foundations.

There's only one Jack Walker.......

kevin ennis, caldas da rainha, portugal

This is great news for all football fans in New Zealand. Our game contantly looses out to other sports in this part of the worl, but I am delighted to see Ryan doing so well in the best league in the world.
Just hope he can turn out for New Zealand now and then

Brian, Auckland, New Zealand

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