Tarek Elrich Re-signs With Newcastle Jets

The Newcastle Jets have confirmed that Tarek Elrich has re-signed with the club for a further two years, keeping the dynamic right-back in Newcastle until the conclusion of the 2011/12 season.

Elrich began as a trainee with the Jets in the inaugural season of Australia’s top-flight competition, but has since become a key member of the squad.

His consistent performances at club level have also earned him Socceroos selection in recent times.

One of the most recognisable faces in the Jets’ playing roster, the affable Elrich has long been a fan favourite and today Head Coach Branko Culina praised the 22-year-old.

“Not only is Tarek a terrific football player but he’s a terrific ambassador for Newcastle Jets Football Club, and even though he’s a Sydney boy I think he’s a great ambassador for Newcastle.”

“Some of the things he does off the park that people don’t necessarily see are just fabulous and it’s a great example of what this club is all about and what this club wants to be.

"And that is a community club where players are willing to do things outside of their responsibilities as a football player,” Culina said.

Elrich himself believes that with 63 A-League appearances already under his belt, the next few years will see him develop as one of the true leaders within the club.

He continued, “I’m still a young player, and we’ve got a lot of young talent at this club, and I’d like to help them out as much as I can, especially over the next few years, and guide them in the right direction.

“I’ve been through tough times as a footballer in my short career and some of the young boys at this club are eventually going to go through the same thing.

"The club sees me as one of the more experienced players, so hopefully I can guide these kids and help them out as much as I can.”

“On a personal note, it’s been great for me, the past couple of years. I’ve learned so much and I think I’ve still got a lot to learn, especially on the pitch as a footballer, with the help of Branko and our assistant coach Mark Jones hopefully I can better myself."

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