Everton have handed Phil Jagielka a one-year extension to his current deal.
Jagielka’s existing contract was due to expire in under 12 months’ time but the Blues’ captain has now been offered the chance to stay until summer 2019.
The England international is currently celebrating his testimonial year at Goodison Park and has held the club’s captaincy for the past four seasons.
And he admits that the chance to extend his stay with Everton required little thought.
“I came back for pre-season and tried to get my fitness levels as high as possible, ready to compete for a place,” he told evertontv.
“It is always nice to have the potential of an extra year with the club – and it did not take too long for me to decide to sign.
“I was delighted to do so and I am looking forward to the journey over the next two years.
“It has been a fantastic time here but, hopefully, we will create some more special memories in the next two years and I can look back on my time at Everton with a smile on my face.”
The 34-year-old is also setting his sights on scooping silverware following a progressive summer for Ronald Koeman’s side in the transfer market.
He added: “That is what you want to be part of – the club is moving forward.
“I do not think the transfer business is finished but it is good that we have got people in nice and early.
“For the chairman (Bill Kenwright) to offer me the extra year – hopefully I can play my role, whatever that might be.
“First and foremost, I want to get myself in that team and do my bit on the pitch.
“Realistically, winning a trophy is an aim this season, next season… and into the future. We want to be competing for things.
“We have the European game coming up, we want to get through that, then we will look forward to competing in four competitions this season and performing in every one.”