Everton midfielder Darron Gibson has signed a two-year contract extension, having rejected the chance to move elsewhere.

The Republic of Ireland international has struggled with injuries over the last couple of seasons and managed just 11 appearances in the most recent campaign after falling out of favour with previous boss Roberto Martinez.

But the 28-year-old is determined to repay the club’s — and presumably new manager-elect Ronald Koeman’s — faith in him after being given a new deal, having initially signed for the Toffees back in January 2012.

“I am absolutely delighted,” he told evertontv.

“I had a few options but as long as Everton were giving me the option I was never going anywhere else.

“People say ‘Once Everton has touched you’ and it is true.

“It is a great club, there are great people here and the dressing room is great, so I was never signing anywhere else.

“Obviously I have had a tough few years but thankfully the club have stuck by me and I have signed for another two years, so hopefully the next two years go a lot better.

“The first year I came, I had a great season but obviously the rest I have been injured quite a bit.

“Last year I was fit but didn’t play too much, so it is nice to know the club and the fans are still behind me.

“There have been highs and lows. I just want to put the past behind me and look forward to the next two years