Sydney FC defender Hayden Foxe has signed a one-year contract that will keep him with the Sky Blues until at least the end of the Hyundai A-League 2010/11 season.

Sydney FC defender Hayden Foxe has signed a one-year contract that will keep him with the Sky Blues until at least the end of the Hyundai A-League 2010/11 season.

Foxe joined Sydney FC in January this year on a six week contract as an injury replacement for fellow defender Sebastian Ryall but his immediate impact both on and off the pitch saw him become an important part of the Sky Blues defensive unit.

The former Socceroo and English Premier League defender stepped up to slot an important goal during last Saturday night-s Grand Final penalty shoot out to help Sydney FC clinch the Hyundai A-League 2010 title.

“I am very lucky to have been given a chance to play for Sydney FC this season. It was unfortunate that I came in for an injured player but I was coming back from injury as well,” Foxe said.

“Like I have said before, I am blessed to have been able to play football and now win a championship is special. It is great to be back in my hometown of Sydney.

“The set-up at Sydney FC is what has enabled me to play on. The fitness regimes and the coaching and medical staff have been fantastic. They have been a big plus for my career.”

Foxe represented Australia at the 1996 Atlanta and 2000 Sydney Olympic Games and played for West Ham, Portsmouth and Leeds United in the English Premier League.

“Hayden brings a lot of experience and football knowledge to Sydney FC,” coach Vitezslav Lavicka said.

“As well as being a very good player he helps out with advice for many of our players.”

“He helps with football but also off the pitch he has spoken with many of our young players about what to expect and how to handle injuries. He is great character to have at Sydney FC.”