Seamus Coleman has vowed to repay Everton’s faith in him after signing a new five-year deal.
Talks over an improved contract had been finalised prior to the defender suffering a double leg fracture suffered on Republic of Ireland duty in March.
Coleman, 28, was sidelined for up to six months by a tackle from Wales’ Neil Taylor in the World Cup qualifier between the countries two months ago.
But the Blues’ offer of a new deal until summer 2022 remained on the table throughout his rehabilitation process, which began at Finch Farm last week.
“I’m delighted to get this signed,” said Coleman.
“I’ve been here for a long time and it’s a special club that means a lot to me.
“Everything had been agreed and I was due to sign it after the international break but unfortunately I got the injury.
“The chairman (Bill Kenwright) messaged me the night of my injury and said, ‘Don’t worry about it because when you come back this contract is still waiting for you’.
“That sums up what the chairman and this club is all about.
“Farhad Moshiri also sent me cards and said the support was always going to be there. I’m delighted with how the club has handled the situation.
“Knowing that I was going to come back and sign it has definitely helped things. It’s a massive boost and gives me something to fight for.
“I want to prove my worth when I come back and show the club were right for rewarding me with this long-term contract.”