S.Korean winger Lee signs new deal with Bolton

South Korean international Lee Chung-yong has signed a lengthy contract extension with Premier League club Bolton, the club announced on Thursday.

The new deal ties the winger to the Lancashire club till 2013, manager Owen Coyle said.

The 24-year-old Lee has been in fine form for Bolton, currently lying fifth in the table going into Saturday’s league game against Blackpool.

“We have signed Lee on a contract extension. It is great news for the club that such a talented player will be here for a long time,” Coyle said.

Lee’s contract extension at the Reebok Stadium follows in the footsteps of team-mates Fabrice Muamba, Stuart Holden and Danny Ward, moves that Coyle, who arrived in January from Burnley, feels will secure the club’s immediate future.

“These extensions show we are looking to build a club. I am very forward thinking in trying to improve and help these young players on our journey,” he said.

“With the talent he has Lee is getting better day by day and I am thrilled he has signed up.

“What I am wary of is we do not burn him out as he has played two years without a break. He managed to have three weeks off after the World Cup that’s all.”

Lee, who arrived from FC Seoul last summer, has started all 14 league games this season and weighed in with two goals.

Chairman Phil Gartside meanwhile is in talks to retain the services of in-form Swedish striker Johan Elmander, whose existing deal runs out in the summer.

Elmander is enjoying a purple patch after a difficult time and has already scored eight goals in the league this term.

“Phil has had talks with Johan’s representative and that will be ongoing. It is something I am very comfortable with,” Coyle said.

“Johan has been terrific from day one and if they decide they want it to run its course into January, then so be it.

“I have no problems with that. Johan is well within his rights to do what is right for himself and his family.”