West Brom boss Darren Moore believes Jake Livermore’s best football is still ahead of him after the midfielder signed a contract extension.
The 29-year-old, who is currently captaining the team and so far missed just one Sky Bet Championship fixture this season, has committed his future to the club until 2022.
Moore feels Livermore, signed from Hull during January 2017 and who has won seven England caps, can continue to develop at The Hawthorns.
“I’m really pleased Jake has signed an extension to his contract. Jake is an important member of our squad who adds a wealth of experience to our midfield,” Moore said on the West Brom website.
“I still believe his best football is in front of him and he continues to add attributes to his game.
“He’s somebody that I see playing an integral part in taking this club to where we want it to be.”
The midfielder is a key part of Moore’s team, which is looking to secure a swift return to the Premier League following last season’s relegation.
West Brom sporting and technical director Luke Dowling confirmed there had been “Premier League interest in the summer” before Livermore opted to remain with the club for the challenges ahead.
“We wanted to reward Jake not only for the excellent levels of his performances this season, but also the loyalty he displayed in the summer,” Dowling said.
“There was Premier League interest in the summer, but Jake sat down with the club, listened to what we had to say, and knuckled down without any problems.
“It’s good sense for the club. We are trying to rebuild after relegation and he is one of the key figures for us going forward. This will take him through the peak years of his career.”
Dowling is confident Livermore’s example can only make a positive impact on the squad.
“He conducts himself around the training ground in an exemplary manner which offers a good example to our younger players,” Dowling added.
“We will be looking to extend with some of our other players but it is good that we have several senior players on relatively long-term contracts.”
