Johnsen seals Villa future
Tuesday, April 29, 2003
Article summary
Norwegian international Ronny Johnsen has convinced Aston Villa FC to give him a contract next season.
Article body
Second term
Johnsen joined Villa from Manchester United FC last August on a one-year deal but with the promise of a second term if he played 25 games this season.
Milestone appearance
The 33-year-old reached that mark with his appearance in the recent match against Chelsea FC, and Villa manager Graham Taylor said: "Ronny had in his contract that if he played a certain number of games - 25 to be exact - then the option would automatically be exercised. He has played that number of games.
Taylor tribute
"I've been very pleased with Ronny," he added. "Alex Ferguson, when he released him, made a comment that a fit Johnsen was as good a Premiership centre-back as there is and I think Villa supporters have seen that in his performances."
'Very happy'
Johnsen, who is currently with the Norway squad ahead of Wednesday's friendly against the Republic of Ireland, was released by United after six seasons at Old Trafford. "We're very happy with how his fitness has progressed this season, bearing in mind how he'd left United last season after a few injury problems," Taylor added.
