Defender signs 3 year extension

Last updated : 11 July 2002 By Brian Cartlidge
One staying, One going
The Middleborough born defender was offered a five-year deal back in March of this year but has now signed a deal that will keep him at the club for a further four years.

United didn't want to face the same scenario with Woodgate as they have with midfielder Lee Bowyer, who's contract is in to its last few months meaning they have to accept a lot less money for him rather than him leave on a free transfer when his contract expires. Bowyer is expected to sign for Liverpool in a cut-price £9 million deal.

Woodgate has suffered with injuries and off-the-field incidents recently, but new manager Terry Venables is quoted as saying: "He's got a big future at the club."