Friday 26 August 2016 16:48, UK
Southampton have signed right-back Cedric Soares to a four-year contract extension which will keep him at St Mary's until 2020.
The 24-year-old, who was a key member of the Portugal side that won Euro 2016, only joined the Saints last summer from Sporting Lisbon.
Cedric featured 27 times in all competitions during his first season with Southampton and Executive Director of Football Les Reed sees him as a key part in the club's future.
Reed said: "Since his arrival at the club, Cedric has gone from strength to strength, ending his first season in England with a memorable Euro 2016 for Portugal this summer.
"At just 24, he now has plenty of experience under his belt at both club and international level, and we believe he will continue to be a key part of the club's progression for many years to come.
"Although Cedric has only been with the club for one season, he has developed as a player and gained a real understanding of what is required to succeed in the Premier League.
"He becomes the seventh player to sign a new contract this summer, strengthening the club's commitment to tie down its top talent."
Saints manager Claude Puel added: "It's good news for the club, for Cedric and for all the team. He is an international player, he has won EURO 2016 with Portugal and it's important for the club to keep players of his calibre.
"I'm happy for him and for us to keep Cedric with this team. He is a good player, important, a technical player and I am sure he will do many good things this season."
Speaking about his new deal, Soares said: "I'm really happy. The club has given me more confidence and they show me that they also trust in my football.
"I am really happy to be part of this club and be part of this family as well."
