Neville re-signs with Everton

Everton captain Phil Neville has signed a contract extension with the English Premier League club until 2013.

The 34-year-old’s contract was due to expire at the end of this season, and with a one-year extension agreed he took the opportunity to express his commitment to the club.

He told the club’s official website: “I feel really proud and this club has never let me down.”

“It’s shown faith in me again and for the next two years I’m going to give my all for this football club. That’s what I’ve done for the last six years and that’s what I’ll continue to do.”

The versatile defender or midfielder played 35 matches last season for manager David Moyes and signed the deal ahead of Saturday’s 1-0 defeat to QPR at Goodison Park.

The former England international has predominantly played at right-back or in a defensive midfield role for the club after moving from Manchester United in 2005.

In this time he has become a key player, going on to captain the side and scoring crucial penalties in shootout wins over Manchester United in 2009 and over Chelsea last season.

He will be 36 when his new deal ends, although he did not mention any plans for retirement.

“I want to play beyond that. But for the next two years I’m going to give my all,” Neville said.

“I love playing for Everton. I love the spirit in the club, I love the togetherness, and that’s going to continue.”