Kilbane commits to Everton for three more years

KEVIN KILBANE yesterday signed a new three-year contract with Everton, describing the Goodison Park club as “special”.

The Republic of Ireland midfielder becomes the fifth Everton player this summer to agree fresh terms, following hot on the heels of Duncan Ferguson, Gary Naysmith, Leon Osman and David Weir.

With manager David Moyes completing the £5m signing of Denmark central defender Per Koldrup, in addition to the £3.5m capture of Simon Davies last month, Kilbane feels the club is on the rise.

“I am really pleased my contract has all been sorted out and I can look forward now to the next few years with Everton,” said Kilbane, whose new contract runs until 2008.

Kilbane, who signed from Sunderland in September 2003, was a key figure last season in the club’s remarkable ascent to fourth in the Premiership.

The 28-year-old is now eagerly looking forward to Champions League football.

He added: “I am happy I know where my future is going to lie.

“It is a special club. Anybody who plays here doesn’t want to leave, and I am no different.”