Aston Villa midfielder Fabian Delph has agreed a new contract that will keep him at the Midlands club until 2015.
The England U21 international, signed from Leeds United in 2009, has just returned from a long-term knee injury, but manager Gerard Houllier insists there were no concerns over Delph’s future fitness when he was offered the new deal.
The Frenchman told Villa’s official website: “I know Fabian hasn't played a lot for us because he has just got over his long-term injury but we are very confident he will become a very good player for Aston Villa.
“The fact he signed the contract means he trusts us too.
“I think he's a good footballer, he will get stronger and stronger and he will improve his game.
“When you sign a player - or re-sign a player - you need to make sure he has the right attitude for the club and the fans and Fabian certainly fits that bill.”
And Delph, who has made just nine first-team appearances for Villa, added: “I am absolutely delighted.
“The club has shown great commitment in me by offering me this deal and I was more than happy to sign it.
“I am happy and my family are happy - so everyone is happy. I want to push on now, improve and play a part as we look to finish the season on a high and build for next season.”