Rodwell made his Premier League debut in March 2008

Everton midfielder Jack Rodwell has signed a new five-year contract at the Merseyside club.

The 19-year-old had been linked with a £15m move to Manchester United but has committed himself to the Toffees after talks with manager David Moyes.

Rodwell, who can play at centre-half, made his Everton debut at the age of 16 in December 2007.

He signed a five-year deal in February 2009 and has earned an improved contract following a fine season.

Rodwell told BBC Radio Merseyside: "It's a brilliant day for me - I've been at this club for a long time now and and signing a new five-year deal is amazing and a good feeling.

"To play for them is an honour and to get this contract is even better.

"You look at the players here and on paper it's a brilliant squad. With this squad, the manager we've got and the support of the fans, I think the club can move forward."

Rodwell established himself as a first-team regular at Goodison Park last season, making 36 appearances.

The highlight of his season came when he scored a superb individual goal in the Toffees' 3-1 win over Manchester United in February.

He becomes the third Everton player to sign a new deal this month, following Tim Cahill and Seamus Coleman.

606: DEBATE Well done Jacky boy, and well done Everton for getting this wrapped up quickly and quietly toffeearab1985

Moyes said: "I'm very pleased that Jack Rodwell has signed an improved contract because it reaffirms Everton's ambition to challenge the top clubs.

"I want to keep all the players we have here to make us stronger in the coming season."

Southport-born Rodwell joined Everton as a trainee three years ago and has represented England at every level from under-16 to under-21.

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