Darron Gibson signs two-year deal to stay at Everton

Midfielder Darron Gibson has signed a two-year contract extension with Everton.

Gibson struggled badly with injuries last season, making only 11 appearances, and says he turned down "options" with other clubs to commit his future to Everton, who are still yet to confirm Ronald Koeman as their new manager.

The 28-year-old has been at Goodison Park since January 2012, but injuries mean he has only played 51 Premier League games since joining the club from Manchester United.

Gibson was also among the last cuts from the Republic of Ireland squad for Euro 2016, and he hopes a run in Everton's first team can get him back in Martin O'Neill's favour.

"I am absolutely delighted," he told evertontv. "I had a few options but as long as Everton were giving me the option I was never going anywhere else.

"People say 'Once Everton has touched you' and it is true. It is a great club, there are great people here and the dressing room is great, so I was never signing anywhere else.

"Obviously I have had a tough few years but thankfully the club have stuck by me and I have signed for another two years, so hopefully the next two years go a lot better.

"The first year I came, I had a great season but obviously the rest I have been injured quite a bit. Last year I was fit but didn't play too much, so it is nice to know the club and the fans are still behind me.

"There have been highs and lows. I just want to put the past behind me and look forward to the next two years."