Central Coast has tied down two of its most influential players with the re-signing of young star Tomas Rogic and veteran defender Patrick Zwaanswijk.
Both Rogic, a talented, young attacking midfielder, and the 37-year-old Zwaanswijk, one of the most reliable central defenders in the A-League, both signed on until the end of the 2013 Asian Champions League group stage.
Rogic was a target for many rival A-League clubs after rocketing on to the scene last season.
Coach Graham Arnold labelled the 19-year-old's retention as a coup for the Mariners as they seek an elusive first title.
"Tomas is one of the brightest prospects in Australian football, a player who could have an outstanding career if developed properly," Arnold said.
"Tommy believed staying at the Mariners was the best thing for his personal development and with a full preseason we believe he will be a key player for us next season."
Rogic revealed Arnold, who turned down a lucrative offer to become coach of Sydney FC, was a big factor in his decision to stay in Gosford.
"A little bit of loyalty can go a long way in football, and hopefully I've shown that (loyalty)," Rogic said.
"I'm pretty grateful to have the other offers that I received [but] I guess I was leaning towards the Mariners because 'Arnie's' here and they gave me a chance in the first place.
"I just thought it was the best decision for my football career at this point in time and a decision that will give me the best chance to develop as a player."
As well as his stable partnership with skipper Alex Wilkinson at the back, Zwaanswijk has scored seven goals in 29 appearances for Central Coast.
"Patrick wanted to play another season and we wanted Patrick to remain a Mariner," Arnold added.
"He has proven in his two seasons in Australia so far that he is one of the best foreign players ever to play in the country.
"We know and expect Patrick will give us the same level of performance next season as he has in the past two years at the club."
The experienced Dutchman said he is both physically and mentally ready for another A-League season.
"It only took two meetings between myself and the club to reach an agreement for next season, which shows you the kind of person I am and the way the club is," he said.
"As soon as I told my wife and kids they were jumping in the air."
Tags: a-league, soccer, sport, gosford-2250, nsw, australia First posted May 24, 2012 16:28:03
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