Devine delighted as 'best midfielder in the league' Bruna signs new deal with the Candystripes

Derry City boss Declan Devine says he’s delighted to secure ‘the best midfield player in the league’ Gerardo Bruna for another season.

The Argentinian playmaker has signed a one-year extension to his existing deal which will keep him at the Ryan McBride Brandywell until the end of the 2020 season.

Former Real Madrid and Liverpool trainee Bruna has become an indispensable figure in the deep-lying role alongside Greg Sloggett and captain Barry McNamee.

The 28-year-old has made 26 appearances in all competitions for the Candystripes, 23 in the league, scoring twice and providing numerous assists.

“What a guy, what a player,” enthused Devine on announcement of the midfielder’s contract renewal.

“We know when he was coming here it would take a wee bit of time to find his feet, and my god has he found his feet.

“In my opinion, over the last number of weeks and months he’s been the best midfield player in the league.

“He’s been very creative, his range of passing has been second to none and he’s a fantastic technician of the ball. We're really privileged to have him for another year.”

Bruna added: “I feel I’m getting better with every game. It was tougher at the beginning of the season because I wasn’t playing as much, but sometimes that happens. You just have to keep working.

“I’m really glad [the fans] appreciate what I bring into the team, the type of football I can do. Hopefully I can contribute a bit more with assists and goal, but I’m just enjoying the moment.

“I really like the city and my family really like the city and what everyone is trying to do with the club. It’s a great club and everyone has really looked after me and my family.”