Bengaluru: Bengaluru FC have signed defensive mainstay John Johnson on a new two-year deal that keeps with the champions of India till the end of the 2017-18 season, the club announced on Monday.

Johnson had signed with the Blues since the club's inception before going on to spend three seasons during which he won two I-League titles and one Federation Cup crown with BFC. He was named the League's 'Best Defender' for the 2015-16 last month as the Blues put behind the disappointment of being edged out by Mohun Bagan in the 2014-15 season at the death to bring back the title to Bengaluru.

"John Johnson has been immense for the club and has been the kind of leader who doesn't need an armband. We are at a very crucial phase at the club and getting him on board for another two seasons puts us in a very good position. He's always inspiring the lads on the pitch and is a great character to have in the dressing room, needless to say he's a fan favourite," said Mustafa Ghouse, COO, Bengaluru FC.

Ever since his first season in India, Johnson has been on the radar of a fair number of clubs but the No.6 said signing a new deal with the Blues was one of the easier choices he's made. "I'm delighted to have signed a new contract. Bengaluru FC is home to me. I've enjoyed every minute of the three seasons that I've spent here and I still feel I have a lot more to offer and achieve with this team. I've personally enjoyed great support from the fans and it's nice to know I will be seeing them again. It's going to be an important season ahead and I'm already looking forward to it," said Johnson.