9 September 2005, by Tom Kundert

Boa Morte pens five-year deal

Fulham boss delighted to secure his “captain and king”

Luis Boa Morte has pledged his long-term future to Fulham.

The Portuguese winger has signed an improved five-year contract that will keep him at the Club until June 2010. If he sees it out, he will complete a decade at the London club.

Boa Morte enjoyed a superb season last year, making a crucial contribution towards keeping Fulham in the top flight.

He was rewarded for his endeavour and steadfast commitment when Fulham manager Chris Coleman made him club captain.

Speculation has been rife in recent months that 28-year-old Portugal forward would be moving on. Newcastle boss Graeme Souness was especially keen on the former Arsenal and Southampton man, so manager Chris Coleman could scarcely contain his joy at securing the long-term services of the winger.

“We’re not in the habit of selling our best players, we also want to plan for the future and he’s a big part of that,” he said. “He can be the Captain for five years as long as I’m here and he shows the same levels of commitment, performance and consistency.”

Fans' idol

“He likes it here, he likes the feel of the Club and he knows that the fans absolutely idolise him. The staff around the Club worship him, the players love him and that’s important for Boa because he’s a very passionate person, especially about football. He’s like a King here.”

Boa Morte will be keen to put in another good season to earn his place in Portugal’s World Cup squad after just missing out at Euro 2004.