Seamus Coleman has secured his future with Everton after signing a new five-year deal with the club.
The Donegal native, who continues his long road back from injury after suffering a double fracture to his right leg against Wales during the World Cup qualifier in March, said that a deal was already agreed with chairman, Bill Kenwright.
"I’m delighted to get this signed," Coleman told evertontv. "I've been here for a long time and it's a special club that means a lot to me.
"Everything had been agreed and I was due to sign it after the international break but unfortunately I got the injury.
"The chairman messaged me the night of my injury and said, 'Don't worry about it because when you come back this contract is still waiting for you'. That sums up what the chairman and this club is all about."
Coleman has made 247 appearances and scored 24 goals for the club since signing from Sligo Rovers in 2009.
He continued: "I’m delighted with how the club has handled the situation. Knowing that I was going to come back and sign it has definitely helped things. It’s a massive boost and gives me something to fight for.
"I want to prove my worth when I come back and show the Club were right for rewarding me with this long-term contract."
The Republic of Ireland captain offered an update on his recovery from injury, saying: "It’s a case of not doing too much too soon – it’s just baby steps at the moment - but I am getting on well so far."
"I’m starting to put more weight through the leg and I have got no pain. I’m back doing a good bit in the gym and in the pool. I’m doing exercise every day, so the recovery has well and truly started. I’m really looking forward to putting on that Blue shirt again."
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