Manchester City FC

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Citizens secure Ball future

13 Jul 2007 - 08:15:30

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Manchester City boss Sven-Goran Eriksson has handed defender Michael Ball a new two-year contract.

The former Everton and Rangers left-back signed a short-term deal when he arrived at the City of Manchester Stadium from PSV Eindhoven in January.

But, after making 14 appearances and impressing the City hierarchy, the 28-year-old has been rewarded with a new deal.

Ball won his solitary England cap when Eriksson was England coach towards the beginning of his tenure, against Spain in 2001.

"Michael's experienced, having played in Scotland and Holland as well as England, and it's good that he is staying with us as he's going to be very useful," the Swede told the club's official website.

"We had to build on what was good here, and there was a lot that was really good, so I'm happy that he's signed and he is happy as well."

Meanwhile, City are set to unveil £8.8million signing Rolando Bianchi on Friday after the Reggina striker underwent a medical at the club's Carrington training ground.

"Mr Eriksson called me personally and told me he wanted me at any cost," Bianchi told Sky Italia.

"He told me 'Come and we will be watched by 50,000 fans every Saturday and we want to be in Europe'.

"When he just mentioned the word Europe, I had a big feeling."