Thursday 24 August 2017 15:47, UK
Maya Yoshida has signed a new three-year Southampton contract.
The Japan centre-half was inside the final 12 months of his previous deal but has now committed to Saints until the summer of 2020.
"There was no reason to leave the club," said Yoshida, who arrived at St Mary's from Dutch club VVV Venlo in 2012. "I have been here for five years. In that time, I have had difficult moments, good moments - everything.
"I feel like it's my home and I'm very happy to continue my journey with Southampton. It's a new chapter for my career."
Saints vice-chairman Les Reed said: "We are extremely pleased to have reached a new agreement with Maya, who is a vital part of our squad, not only on the pitch, but off it.
"Maya is a player who has taken great strides in his game during his time with us, and his influence was felt particularly last season, as he formed outstanding partnerships with both Virgil van Dijk and Jack Stephens, helping the team reach the EFL Cup final.
"Maya is an excellent example for any young professional to follow and it was important to ensure that we extended our commitment with him.
"We are excited about the depth we now possess at the centre-back position for the years ahead, with Maya's new deal strengthening our excellent group even further for the coming seasons."
