Seamus Coleman has signed a one-year contract extension with Everton.
And the Blues' captain has received a glowing tribute from chairman Bill Kenwright after putting pen to paper on a deal that keeps him at Goodison until the summer of 2023.
Coleman said talks over an extension were "straightforward" and has thanked the board for allowing him to prolong his stay at the club.
"I’m very happy - everyone around the Football Club and I’m sure all the fans know how much this club has meant to me from day one,” Coleman said.
“It’s a massive honour to extend my time here. It was about getting my head down and to keep working hard like I’ve always done, and the Club decided to reward me with that. It’s something I’m very happy with.
“Hopefully now I can keep going as long as possible, give my experience to the younger lads, help and support them in any way I can, and contribute on the pitch as much as possible.
“Discussions with Marcel, the Board and the manager were straightforward. It’s not something that I just wanted to be given. I worked very hard last season and thought I did quite well in the games that I played in.
“Every day in training I pushed myself to the limits and did all I could to stay and play for a big football club like this. I’m very thankful to Marcel, the manager, the Chairman and the Board to get this done.”
Everton chairman Kenwright said: “I’m sure I speak on behalf of everyone connected with Everton when I say I’m delighted that Seamus has signed this contract extension.
“Since his man-of-the-match performance on his Premier League debut almost 12 years ago, he has displayed all the qualities Evertonians love – skill, passion, determination, and an unrelenting desire to win and to be the best.
“A loyal, universally respected leader who has worn our shirt with pride no less than 350 times and on every single occasion has given his all – just as he does every day in training and when he represents us in the community.
“It takes a lot to become thought of as a legend at Everton – but Seamus is right up there with the very best…and knowing Seamus, I’m sure there’s even more to come…
“Seamus Coleman… True hero…True blue. I’m proud to know him and to be his Chairman."
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