David Moyes has hailed Michael Keane after he signed a new Everton deal.
Keane penned a fresh one-year extension at Hill Dickinson Stadium on Thursday ahead of his existing contract expiring at the end of this season.
The centre-back, formerly a club-record signing, will stay with the Blues until June 2027 marking a decade of service since his 2017 arrival from Burnley.
He has made 30 appearances in all competitions this term and contributed to 11 clean sheets in the Premier League, the fourth highest number to date.
And Moyes paid tribute to Keane, as a key component of his squad.
He said: “We’re pleased to have extended Michael’s long service at Everton.
“He is an experienced and respected member of the squad, who knows the standards we expect at the club.
“Michael has been consistent all season and he’ll continue to be a valuable part of our squad going into next season.”
Keane admitted after penning his fresh terms that he feels in a strong position heading into his testimonial year with Everton and buoyed for the year ahead.
“I’m really happy,” he told evertontv.
“The club means a lot. It’s one of those things that’s easy to say, but it has become part of me.
“It’s who I am and it feels like family to me – the people around the club, the fans, the players, the staff.
“So it’s really special to me and I couldn’t really imagine my life without Everton. I think it’s been a great season for me personally.
“I’ve played a lot of football – probably more than I expected – and I feel like I’ve done well and I’ve absolutely loved it.
“Ten years is a long time. I’ve seen a lot here and been through a lot and it’s good now we’re in a much better place than what we have been in the past.
“I go into my 10th season looking really positive, and thinking what we can achieve and where we can be is really exciting.”