The Central Coast Mariners have taken a huge step forward in securing the future development of the squad with contract extensions for young gun defenders Michael Neill and Jacob Poscoliero.
Two year deals to both players will see them remain in the yellow and navy until the completion of the Hyundai A-League 2016/17 campaign.
It is a time of mixed emotions for Neill who is recovering from an injury to his foot that will see him miss the remainder of the current season.
Despite injury, ‘Mickey Neill’ was upbeat when speaking on his opportunity to spend a further two seasons with the Mariners.
“It’s a privilege to be worthy of another contract and I am thrilled to be on The Central Coast for an additional two seasons, full credit to Mossy’s belief in me. I certainly won’t play this season but I intend to be back training with the team before the end of the season to be in full fitness for 2015/16,” Neill said.
Poscoliero was excited to sign on for an additional two seasons having proved his versatility both out wide and in the centre of defence for Phil Moss’ men.
“This is my first year in the A-League and I’ve enjoyed every minute of it and to be given a new deal, I’m over the moon,” Poscoliero said.
Poscoliero experienced the rigours of European football having spent time in the lower Italian leagues but rates the Hyundai A-League well above his time spent abroad.
“The A-League is definitely a step up, more so physically, the pace of the game is a lot quicker here and the quality of the players are a lot higher,” Poscoliero said.
Head coach Phil Moss was excited to announce the dual re-signings of his young stars for a further two seasons.
“They are two great signings for us, with Mickey we are looking forward to getting him right for our next pre-season and are hopeful that this is the end to his run of injuries,” Moss said.
“Mickey has a great mentality, he’s a quality footballer and myself, along with the coaching staff have full belief that he will gain full fitness and be back on deck for next season.” Moss said.
Moss was full of praise for the former Blacktown City man, who has seamlessly proved himself worthy of the Hyundai A-League.
“Posco was the stand out centre back of the state league last year and Blacktown City won that, full credit to Blacktown for the hard work they put into developing Jacob’s game. He’s stepped up to this level and his first few performances warranted him selection over established Mariners first team players,” Moss said.
“I brought him in to add competition and depth and he’s certainly done that and some,” Moss said.
