Sol Bamba had been linked with a move away from the Pars

The 22-year-old, who joined the Pars from Paris St Germain last year, is now contracted until May 2010.

Pars boss Stephen Kenny said: "At one stage, I had planned without him because it looked like he would go.

"He is keen to get his place in the Ivory Coast team for the African Nations Cup. That was his motivation."

Kenny revealed that Dunfermline turned down bids from English sides in the past week for the 22-year-old.

"There was some uncertainty about his future," said the manager.

Dunfermline have turned down bids this week from clubs in England Pars manager Stephen Kenny

"I had not included him in the pre-season trip we had to Spain, at that stage he was clear in his mind that he wanted to leave.

"We only wanted players who wanted to be here, but he spoke to his father.

"He came in and changed his mind.

"In fairness, Dunfermline have turned down bids this week from clubs in England.

MY SPORT: DEBATE Give your thoughts on Sol Bamba's decision

"The fact they have done that and Sol wants to stay is decent.

"There was interest from the Championship and League One."

Kenny was delighted to hold on to the player.

"If players want to get away and they are persistent in their attempts, that can be difficult to achieve, but he certainly wants to stay," added the manager.

"He is an outstanding prospect, so I am pleased to have him."