Source: Team_Talk
Arteta pens five-year Everton deal
Everton midfielder Mikel Arteta has ended speculation over his future by signing a new five-year deal at Goodison Park.[LNB] The 28-year-old has been linked with a number of other clubs over the summer, including Arsenal, but has decided to commit himself to the Merseysiders until 2015.[LNB]The inspirational Spaniard follows the recent examples of Tim Cahill, Jack Rodwell, Leighton Baines and Seamus Coleman in signing a new long-term contract.[LNB]Manager David Moyes has made the re-signing of his biggest names his top priority since the last season ended and now only midfielder Steven Pienaar remains of those key players to agree a new deal.[LNB]Arteta told the club's website, www.evertonfc.com: "What this summer has made me realise is how important I am to the club and how important the club is to me.[LNB]"The chairman and the manager wanted me to stay 120% and that makes me feel proud.[LNB]"We are all seeing the club and the future in the same way and that is special - something that you don't always find.[LNB]"I believe in this squad. We have got a very strong squad now and it is getting difficult to pick an 11 because of the players we have.[LNB]"Something is happening here and I want to be a part of it."[LNB]The former Rangers player, who remains uncapped by Spain, joined the Toffees in a permanent £2million deal five years ago following a successful loan from Real Sociedad.[LNB]He has since proved one of the club's most inspirational players and soon rediscovered his best form after returning from an 11-month lay-off with a serious knee injury in January.[LNB]His performances brought him to the attention of other clubs but his decision to stay gives Everton a huge lift a week before the start of the new Barclays Premier League season.[LNB]Moyes said: "It's great news that Mikel Arteta has pledged his future to Everton.[LNB]"He is a very important player for us and we are delighted to secure him.[LNB]"The chairman deserves a lot of credit for making this deal happen. He is continually trying to move the club forward."[LNB]Chairman Bill Kenwright added: "Mikel Arteta is one of the finest players ever to wear an Everton shirt and over the past few weeks his pride in wearing that shirt has helped our conversations hugely.[LNB]"Alongside several others in the squad we are both passionate Evertonians.[LNB]"After already tying up the likes of Tim Cahill, Jack Rodwell, Leighton Baines and Seamus Coleman on long-term deals we have now agreed terms with one of the finest and most influential players in our recent history."[LNB]Everton can now turn their full attention to their discussions with South Africa international Pienaar.[LNB]The 28-year-old former Borussia Dortmund player is now entering the final year of his contract.[LNB]
