SAFC – Bolo Zenden
Posted on 17 May 2010 by Lee Sevenoaks
Sunderland midfielder Bolo Zenden has committed his future to the club after being offered the chance to remain on Wearside for the 2010/11 Barclays Premier League season. The 33 year-old former Dutch international joined the Black Cats on a free transfer after leaving French outfit Olympique de Marseille last summer, initially training with Steve Bruce’s side as he considered a number of offers from the continent.
The Maastricht-born player, who has amassed 54 international caps for the Netherlands, signed a one-year deal at the Stadium of Light in October and has now taken up an optional extension to remain in the North East.
Sunderland manager Steve Bruce said: “I’m delighted Bolo has agreed to stay with us.
“He has played at the top level for a long time and has a wealth of experience which is so valuable both on and off the pitch. He has a great influence on his teammates and that is vital when you’re bringing through the promising young players that we are.”
After starting his professional career with PSV Eindhoven, Zenden joined European giants Barcelona in 1998 before spending six seasons in the English top flight with Chelsea, Middlesbrough and Liverpool, playing in the UEFA Champions’ League Final with the latter.
Prior to his move to Wearside, Zenden spent two seasons alongside current Sunderland captain Lorik Cana at Marseille.
