Football: Alex Rufer's renaissance continues at Wellington Phoenix

Alex Rufer has re-signed with the Wellington Phoenix. Photo / Photosport

The renaissance of Alex Rufer has continued at the Wellington Phoenix, with the young midfielder signing on for another year.

Rufer has enjoyed a breakthrough season for the Phoenix this year, becoming a fixture in centre midfield alongside Spanish import Mandi Sosa.

It's been a significant turnaround for Rufer, who struggled to make an impression last season during Darije Kalezic's troubled reign and was barely sighted during the 2016/17 campaign, getting just 48 minutes of game time as he spent much of the year in the Wellington Phoenix reserves.

But, after being offered a trial by new coach Mark Rudan in June, Rufer's standing at the club has gone from strength to strength.

He has become one of the most important members of the team, making 19 appearances out of a possible 20 this season, with 18 starts.

"Considering he is only 22, he plays with such composure and intelligence, but I still believe he can go further," said Rudan.

"I knew he had the potential, from his previous time at the club and he is another that took control of his future, got his head down and worked hard.''

For his part Rufer was happy to extend his stint at the franchise he first joined in 2013.

"I've always had confidence in my own ability and I'm happy I've been able to express that fully this year under Mark," said Rufer.

"He has instilled the confidence I was perhaps lacking in previous seasons and believe I can now progress even further."

The 22-year-old began his career at Young Heart Manawatu before joining Central League side, Western Suburbs where he impressed enough to earn a contract with Wellington Phoenix in 2013.

Rufer, who has made 42 appearances for the Phoenix, has signed until the end of the 2019-2020 A League season.