Southampton’s Jay Rodriguez signs deal to extend stay until 2019

Jay Rodriguez has not played for Southampton for more than a year because of a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament. Photograph: BPI/Rex Shutterstock

Jay Rodriguez has signed a new and improved contract at Southampton that takes him up to 2019, the club have announced.

A ruptured anterior cruciate ligament means it has been more than a year since the 25-year-old last played, but that has not prevented clubs such as Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester City and Liverpool being linked with a summer move.

Rodriguez’s contract was due to expire next year, but the England international has signed an extension taking him through to 2019.

Ronald Koeman, the Southampton manager, told the club’s website: “It’s very good news for the club because there was some speculation about Jay and interest from other big clubs.

“So it is a compliment to the club that we have an agreement with Jay. He is close to being back and that is already good news for everyone.

“He has signed until 2019, which is great news because it is a good signal to everyone inside and outside the club that”

Rodriguez said on Twitter: “It’s been a tough year for myself, but I’m really delighted to sign. It’s now about looking forward to the future.

“This is great news. I just want to carry on improving now and to try to get some game-time.”