Michael Keane says reaching 10 years of service at Everton will be "a big achievement" after signing a new contract to extend his stay at the club until June 2027.
The 33-year-old centre-back's current deal was set to expire at the end of this season but he has proved a key component in David Moyes' rebuild, having made 30 appearances in all competitions this term.
Keane has made 259 appearances and netted 19 goals for the Toffees to date, having signed from Burnley in July 2017.
"I'm really happy," he told club media after penning his new deal. "The club means a lot to me. It's one of those things that's easy to say, but it has become part of me.
"It's who I am and it feels like family to me – the people around the club, the fans, the players and the staff. I couldn't really imagine my life without Everton.
"It has been a great season for me personally. I've played a lot of football – probably more than I expected – and I feel like I've done well and I've absolutely loved it, so to get my 10th year here is a big achievement.
"I didn't know what was going to happen last summer. I didn't know where I was going to end up. I'm guessing people were doubting me, but I've always had belief in myself.
"So to prove again this season that I am good enough and that I can do it has been really pleasing.
"I've seen a lot here and been through a lot, so it's good that we're now in a much better place than what we have been in the past.
"I go into my 10th season feeling really positive, and thinking about what we can achieve and where we can be is really exciting."
Everton boss David Moyes added: "We are pleased to have extended Michael's long service at Everton. He is an experienced and respected member of the squad, who knows the standards we expect.
"He has been consistent all season and he will continue to be a valuable part of our squad going into next season."
Everton fans, how are you feeling about the news? Does Keane still have a part to play in Moyes' evolving side? How do you view his past nine years at the club?
Let us know here
