Harte signs new five-year deal
Thursday, 5 July 2001David O'Leary has rewarded Leeds United defender Ian Harte with a new five-year contract following another exceptional season with the Yorkshire club. Harte, a regular fixture in Mick McCarthy's Republic of Ireland team, has been one of the most consistent performers in the Premiership since breaking into the first team at Elland Road during the 97/98 season.
The Drogheda born full back had four years still to run on his present agreement, but has accepted a new deal after being offered improved terms. Despite losing his place to Dominic Matteo following an erratic start to the 2000/01 campaign, Harte won his place back and finished the season with 12 goals, his best to date, many of them long range efforts from his lethal left boot. He also managed to claim the left-back berth in the Premiership team of the year for the second year running.
United chairman Peter Ridsdale told www.lufc.com: "Ian Harte has agreed a new five-year contract. He had four years left but the world has changed in terms of the going rate. I don't want anyone at Leeds United to think that just because they have come through the youth system they may be exploited or won't be paid the going rate. So we initiated discussion through his agent to prove to Ian we are a club who looks after people."
Ridsdale is confident star striker Mark Viduka will sign an extension to his contract despite growing interest from the continent's top clubs. He is expected to offer the Australian an improved five-year deal. He added: "I believe that with the team we've already got, to keep the squad together is of the highest priority. Then after that if we can add a quality player, that will be fantastic."
Filed by Shane Murray
