Vicente extends Valencia deal

Starring role
The 23-year-old, whose original deal was due to expire on 30 June 2007, has won 27 caps for his country and was an integral figure last season as Valencia completed a league and UEFA Cup double. He appeared in 33 league games from a possible 38 and scored 12 times.

'I'm happy here'
"I have renewed my contract because I have always wanted to stay here, because I love the club and because I am very happy with its plans for the future," Vicente said at a press conference.

Palop boost
Valencia reserve goalkeeper Andrés Palop, who deputises for Santiago Cañizares, has also renewed his contract with the club, agreeing a deal that will keep him at the Mestalla until June 2008.

'Made Valencia great'
"These are two players who have made Valencia great and done great things at this club," said coach Claudio Ranieri. "They have a lot to offer me, the club and the dressing room and I'd like to thank them for renewing their contracts." Valencia open the Spanish season on Saturday when they meet Copa del Rey winners Real Zaragoza in the first leg of the Super Cup at La Romareda.