Everton F.C. have confirmed defender John Stones has put pen to paper on a new five-year deal at Goodison Park.
The England international, 20, enjoyed a breakthrough 2013/14 campaign for club and country, debuting for the Three Lions against Peru at Wembley in May and making 26 appearances for the Toffees.
Stone is delighted to commit his long-term future to the club, where he is expected to play a significant role during the upcoming English Premier League season.
“I am over the moon,” Stones told the club’s official website. “It’s just been such a great last season and to get pen to paper on a new deal is a dream come true.
“The last 12 months have been so enjoyable thanks to the faith that the manager has shown in me and all the players. What we achieved was unbelievable. It was a very memorable season and hopefully there’s more to come.
“I’m learning off Jagielka, Distin and Alcaraz every day. I’m getting better, stronger and wiser.”
Stones, who joined the Toffees from Barnsley in January 2013, is now the third Everton player to commit to the club this summer, following Ross Barkley and Seamus Coleman.
Roberto Martinez added: “It is an important signing for the club and a really good reward for a young footballer with a fantastic future.
“He had an excellent season in 2013-14 and it’s really good news all round.
“It is very important that we continue to let our youngsters continue to develop into bigger roles.”
Everton kick-off their 2014/15 campaign at Leicester City on Saturday, 16 August.
Hoolahan signs Norwich extension
Championship side Norwich City F.C. have announced midfielder Wes Hoolahan has signed a new two-year with the club.
Hoolahan, who was reportedly being pursued by Aston Villa, has opted to stay at Carrow Road despite the Canaries’ relegation from England’s top-flight.
The Republic of Ireland international was out-of-favour with manager Chris Hughton last term but the appointment of Neil Adams has propelled the 32-year-0ld up the pecking order.
“I’m absolutely delighted Wes has agreed to sign a new deal,” said Adams. “He’s a fantastic player who can make a big impact for us this season and he will be an integral part of our squad.”
Hoolahan added: “I’m delighted to have signed.
“Obviously last year it was a bad season for me but I came back in for the pre-season and the manager spoke to me and talked me through his plans.
“Now I just can’t wait to get started and I’m delighted to be here for another couple of seasons.”
Norwich are priced at 10/1 to win the Sky Bet Championship this season.
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