Everton midfielder Darron Gibson has signed a two-year extension to his contract with the club.

The 28-year-old joined the Merseysiders in 2012 but made just 11 first-team appearances for the Toffees last season, including only two Premier League starts.

However, the Republic of Ireland international has done enough to earn a new deal, putting pen to paper on a contract that will keep him at Goodison Park until 2018.

"I am absolutely delighted. I had a few options but as long as Everton were giving me the option I was never going anywhere else. People say 'Once Everton has touched you' and it is true," he told evertontv.

"It is a great club, there are great people here and the dressing room is great, so I was never signing anywhere else. Obviously I have had a tough few years but thankfully the club have stuck by me and I have signed for another two years, so hopefully the next two years go a lot better.

"The first year I came, I had a great season but obviously the rest I have been injured quite a bit. Last year I was fit but didn't play too much, so it is nice to know the club and the fans are still behind me. There have been highs and lows. I just want to put the past behind me and look forward to the next two years."

Gibson, who has been plagued by injuries in recent seasons, was left out of Ireland's squad for Euro 2016 this summer.