BRISTOL, CMC – Bermuda captain Nahki Wells said he was delighted after signing a new two-year contract extension to remain at second-tier English Championship club, Bristol City until 2025.
The 32-year-old forward joined the West Country outfit – nicknamed the Robins – in January 2020 from Premier League club Burnley in a deal worth around U.S. $6 million, and he has since made more than 120 appearances.
Largely overlooked last season by manager Nigel Pearson, Wells has scored eight goals in 22 Championship matches this campaign.
“It was never something that was going to be a difficult decision, it was always something that I wanted,” Wells told Bristol media outlets.
“I set my heart on trying to work hard to earn the opportunity to stay beyond this current contract and to be offered it at this stage is for me, my family, and everyone involved with myself, very happy.”
Last season, the 5-foot, 7-inch tall Bermudian was regularly used as a substitute, and he was close to leaving the Robins, but this season he has become a regular fixture in the team.
“Nahki is a very important member of our squad and has been right the way through,” Pearson said.
“Last year was difficult for him, but his behavior, and the way he was supportive of his team-mates was exemplary.
Pearson added: “He’s a player who is in his 30s, but genetically he’s not going to lose his pace. He’s a good athlete, and he’s got a very boyish outlook on his football.
“He enjoys his football, he trains well. For me, it’s a no-brainer.”
Wells is among six or seven players Pearson said have been offered new contracts, but the club has been open about their need to cut the current wage bill.
Bristol City reported losses of U.S. $34.3 million for the 2021-22 season in November.
“Nahki’s very happy to re-sign, and I’m delighted that he’s decided to stay with us,” Pearson said.
Bristol City, who face West Bromwich Albion on Boxing Day, are 18th in the table and have only won three of their last 10 matches.
