Southampton striker Shane Long has put pen to paper on a new contract, keeping him at the club until 2020.

The fan-favourite only made his move to the club in 2014 but has been rewarded for his form over the season. 

The deal

Long had an impressive season under Ronald Koeman last term and the new deal is likely to be a warning to potential suitors, who may have the Republic of Ireland forward in their plans this summer, that he is not going anywhere.

The contract extension may also be down to the 29-year-old having a successful Euro 2016 campaign and playing a big part in his country's journey to the last 16. 

Long's international form has improved since being at St. Mary's. Photo credit: The Guardian
Long's international form has improved since being at St. Mary's. Photo credit: The Guardian

High praise

Southampton's Director of Football Les Reed spoke to the club's official website to announce the news. Reed claimed tieing down Long for another four years was due to him being a "huge asset" to the club. 

He also said that his "experience" and "character" make him an "extremely valuable" member of the squad. Reed also mentioned that this contract extension was one of many in recent weeks, after Cedric Soares and Ryan Bertrand both held talks over extending their stay on the South Coast.

Speaking about the move himself, Long said he was 'settled' at the club and spoke of his 'delight' at the deal. He also stated he thought he was "playing his best football" at the Saints.

Saints career

In the two years that Long has been at the club, he has enjoyed success. He scored eight goals in 39 games during his debut campaign, before scoring 13 goals in 34 apperances this term. 

He was a regular starter under Koeman and with Claude Puel securing his future early in this window, it looks like Long will once again be in and around the starting XI. It is a big boost for the club after the departure of Graziano Pelle

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