De Rossi secures long-term Roma future

ROME, Feb 5, 2012 (AFP) - Roma were given a double boost following their 4-0 thumping of Inter Milan as midfielder Daniele De Rossi signed a five-year contract extension.

The 28-year-old local boy has spent his whole career at the club but was known to be wanted by Roberto Mancini at Manchester City.

However, the popular vice-captain has now pledged his future to the Italians.

"Daniele De Rossi has renewed his contract for the next five years," said Roma's general managed Franco Naldini in announcing the news on the club's official TV channel.

De Rossi broke into the first team in 2001 and was named Italian Player of the Year in 2009.

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