LEICESTER boss Nigel Pearson has praised “bonkers” centre-back Marcin Wasilewski – and says the Pole will be handed a new contract.
The 33-year-old, who recovered from an horrific double leg-break in 2009, was signed on a free transfer from Anderlecht in the summer and has made 25 appearances for the table-topping Foxes.
And while he has often been kept out of the side by youngster Liam Moore, Pearson says Wasilewski's mere presence is invaluable.
“I love Marcin, he's great,” said Pearson. “And the players, they absolutely adore him. Centre-backs who enjoy defending are a bit of a dying breed.
“As everybody knows but he's been through a terrible injury. It was probably similar to the David Busst one for Coventry all those years ago. It was a horrific, horrific fracture. But he's come through it brilliantly.
“He's an exceptionally tough, honest professional. And I'm not saying he's just a hard worker. He's a good player and a very, very knowledgeable defender. He's also bonkers. Even at my size, if he's late, I change the meeting time!
“But joking aside, he's very well respected by his peers and I think his level of performance has been such that there's no question he's played a very important role in the side's ability to win tight games.
“That's why I'll be looking to extend his contract, regardless of which league we're in next year. I think he'll bring a level of performance, knowledge and professionalism that will add to the squad – on and off the pitch.”
