Heart re-sign Williams on two-year deal

Mar 21, 2014 - 1:51 AM A-League goal-scoring machine David Williams has signed a new two-season deal with resurgent Melbourne Heart.

The 26-year-old has netted 11 goals in 22 appearances for the club this season and sits alongside Brisbane's Besart Berisha and Adam Taggart of Newcastle at the top of the competition's top scorers.

He's also the club's all-time leading attacker with 17 career goals and scored their first-ever hat-trick in February's 5-0 win over Wellington.

His signing comes just two days after the Heart extended coach John Van `t Schip's contract by three years.

"I have been here since 2011 and have worked closely with JvS (John van't Schip), so it is exciting to be continuing my career here," Williams said in a statement on Friday.

"I am happy with how I have performed this season, but there is still plenty of work to be done and we hope to finish the season in a good position."

The ninth-placed Heart have a faint hope of making the finals thanks to their sudden rise under van `t Schip and face a crucial test against Central Coast at AAMI Park on Sunday.

Van `t Schip said Williams was an important part of his squad.

"David has proven his worth as one of the A-League's most dangerous attackers and we are pleased to have him as part of our squad for next season," he said.

"He has not only offered his goal-scoring services this season, but has grown and developed further as a player, making him a truly exciting prospect."

The Heart have released striker Michael Mifsud to allow him to return to Malta with his family.

Source: AAP