Phoenix re-sign key playmaker 

Source: PhotosportPaul Ifill scores for the Phoenix

 Wellington Phoenix have pulled off a huge coup by securing the services of in-form import Paul Ifill for another two A-League seasons.
  
The British-born Barbados international has been a revelation for this season since joining the Phoenix from English Championship side Crystal Palace, stamping his mark as one of the form players in the league.
  
The 30-year-old has scored four goals in 12 matches for the Phoenix and helped to move the New Zealand side into contention for a top-six spot.
  
Ifill on Friday said he had no hesitation in extending a one-year option in his contract to keep him with Wellington until the end of the 2011/12 A-League season.
  
"It was very straightforward and there was very little to talk about," Ifill said.
  
"It wasn't a case of more money, it was more about securing more time in Wellington and I'm really pleased that it's done.
  
"There were other clubs in the market but the Phoenix showed faith in me and, given my injury record in England, brought me here.
  
"I want to reward the club for that faith by staying in Wellington and playing a role in getting the team into the play-offs this season.
  
"When the club let me know they wanted me there was only one place I was going to be.
  
"I've not enjoyed football like this for years.
  
"The last time would have been back in 2004 when I made the FA Cup final with Millwall."
  
Phoenix chief executive Tony Pignata said Ifill was a player in demand but that his decision to re-sign was testament to what the Phoenix had to offer.
  
"To be able to bring a player like Paul here and to see him enjoying playing in the A-League is fantastic for the club and the competition," Pignata said.
  
"We had identified Paul as a recruitment target before the start of this season and (coach) Ricki Herbert and I spoke to him when we visited the United Kingdom.
  
"It took plenty of work but it was great to get him over here but he's clearly shown his worth."