Mokoena rewarded for loyalty at Pompey

South Africa captain Aaron Mokoena signed a new two-and-a-half-year contract with English Championship club Portsmouth on Friday.

Mokoena was keen to extend his stay with Portsmouth even though the Fratton Park team were relegated from the Premier League last season.

The 29-year-old, who joined Portsmouth from Blackburn in 2009, has been a key figure this season as Steve Cotterill’s team recovered from a poor start to climb away from the relegation zone.

With Portsmouth finally under new ownership following Balram Chainrai’s takeover, the club was able to reward Moekoena for his loyalty by handing him a new deal.

Mokoena told Portsmouth’s website: “I wanted to commit myself to Pompey because this is where I belong.

“This club is a big club and I’m settled here. I’ve been in football for years so I know what makes me happy. I feel happy here and that’s why I want to stay.”

Portsmouth chief executive David Lampitt added: “We’re delighted that Aaron has decided to extend his stay at Pompey. He’s our captain and a great leader both on and off the pitch.”