McCarthy pens new Everton deal

James McCarthy has signed a new five year contract with Everton, according to the Mirror.

The Republic of Ireland man had been strongly linked with a move away from Merseyside this close season, with North London duo Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur two of clubs eyeing a move to secure his services.

However, the Toffees have rewarded the midfielder for his consistent performances with an improved deal that is set to see him stay at Goodison Park until 2020.

Since signing from Wigan Athletic two years ago, the twenty-four year old has racked up seventy-six appearances in all competitions, scoring three goals while he has been capped twenty-seven times internationally.

Roberto Martinez’s men secured an eleventh place finish last season – the clubs joint lowest position in a decade but will look to fair better without the distraction of European football.

They begin the 2015/16 campaign at home to Watford and can be backed at 8/11 to kick off with three points.