Chris Baird pens extension to Fulham contract
English premier League outfit Fulham revealed today that defender Chris Baird has decided to extend his stay after signing a new contract, keeping him at the club until 2013.
The 28-year-old, who has been at Craven Cottage since moving from Southampton in the summer of 2007, spoke of his delight at penning a new deal.
He told the club’s official website that: “I’m chuffed to bits and really happy. The new manager, Mark Hughes, seems to like me. I like what he’s doing and how things have started with the team, so I’m really happy to sign a new contract.”
52 appearances in marathon season
The Northern Ireland international has become an integral part of the Fulham first team, and was part of the squad which reached the UEFA Europa League final under Hodgson last season. The player featured for the club 52 times, playing in both the midfield and defence both in the EPL and in European competition.
He admitted that, after his £3m from Southhampton — where he came through the youth ranks and spent nine years in total — it took a while to settle in and put together a run of games in the senior side. However, he is now an important member of Hughes’ squad.
Baird said that, “My first year at the club wasn’t the best. But from there I got a run in the team and played a lot of games. Hopefully the fans have warmed to me and that my good form continues. Last season was by far the best season of my career. I was delighted with my performances, whether I was playing at right-back, centre-back or in midfield. I was just happy to be in the team and getting a good run and that’s what I’m looking for this season.”
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