Wembley Countdown (5 Days To Go): Rui Boost Ahead Of Play-Off Final

Last updated : 21 May 2008 By Kevin Markey
Discussions had been suspended at the start of April but after a number of minor details were settled Marques today ended rumours over his future by opting to remain at Elland Road for a further two years.

The 30-year-old's existing one-year deal had been due to expire at the end of this season but negotiations aimed at reaching a new deal stalled on April 8 with Leeds blaming 'differences in valuation' for their decision to withdraw from talks.

Marques' wage demands were believed to have contributed to the deadlock, but the parties were also at odds over the length of the contract being offered to the centre-back.

His initial request was for a three-year contract, taking him up to the age of 33, but Marques has now agreed to the 24-month extension with the club he joined in 2005.

New talks between Leeds and Marques' advisors took place last Friday, and today's confirmation of the deal is a welcome development for United ahead of Sunday's League One play-off final at Wembley.

It was initially anticipated that further negotiations would be delayed until after the final, but despite rumours of interest from several Championship clubs, Marques was intent on remaining in Leeds regardless of this weekend's result in London.

Marques has enjoyed 18 impressive months at Elland Road since winning his place in the starting line-up at Leeds in January 2007.

His form at the start of this season was impressive enough to earn him a place in Angola's squad for the African Cup of Nations earlier this year.

He immediately regained his place under Gary McAllister following his return from Ghana in February, but a hamstring strain sustained against Brighton on March 29 saw his position in the centre of defence taken by Paul Huntington.

Marques has since made only two substitute appearances since recovering from his injury.