Tuesday Jul 04 2006 10:31
Everton defender Joseph Yobo is on the verge of signing a new long-term contract with the club despite speculation at the end of last season linking him with a Goodison Park exit.
The Nigeria international returned to training on Monday and denied that he was set to leave David Moyes' side.
"I can confirm to you that I am going to sign a new contract with Everton," he told the club's official website.
"I just did not want to rush into making any public statements. I wanted to focus on my football and do well for Everton. But I had already made up my mind to stay long before the season ended.
"It really wasn't all about money. I just wanted certain commitments from the club. Everton are a big club and we should reasonably be challenging for a place in Europe every season. I see now that the club also shares those ambitions and some quality players are coming in and that is very important.
"I am happy here and, if all goes well, I intend to see out my career here. By the time this contract ends, I will be 30 and at the peak of my game. Hopefully, I can prove to the fans and the manager how much I love this football club."
The 25-year-old has made over 100 Premiership appearances for Everton since joining the club, initially on loan, four years ago.
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