Vidic Signs

Manchester United defender Nemanja Vidic has extended his contract with the club until 2012. The centre-back, 26, whose old deal ran out in 2010, moved to United for £7m from Spartak Moscow in Janaury 2006.

The Serb international was unconvincingly initially but did not take long to find his form to help United to the title last season.

"Nemanja has made a terrific impact at the club," Old Trafford boss Sir Alex Ferguson told the club's website. "He has forged a partnership with Rio Ferdinand that was a major part in us winning the title last year.

"He is an extremely popular member of the squad both with staff and fans alike. It's great news that he wants to be part of this exciting side for years to come."

Vidic was a key presence for United early on this season when he helped keep consecutive clean sheets against Tottenham, Sunderland and Everton with the Premier League champions earning three 1-0 wins as they struggled for form in attack.

"Playing in this team is a great privilege," he said. "This is such a great club, I am delighted to be able to extend my stay here.

"The fans and everyone at the club have been very special to me. I hope I can do my bit to bring the club even more trophies in the years ahead."