Phil Neville, the Everton captain, has signed a new four-year contract at the club and says he wants to finish his career at Goodison Park.

"First of all I am really proud that the club has offered me a four-year contract," he said. "I've been here three seasons now and I have to say that I've loved every minute of it.

"I'd like to think that I have immersed myself into the club culture. It's something I had to do after being at one club for about 16 years but it was easy for me to do because from day one this club sucks you in.

"From the outside looking in you don't know what to expect but I found when I came here that the spirit and the togetherness of the club is fantastic.

He added: "Loyalty is a big thing in my life and this is the only club that I want to play for. It's a great club and I want to finish my career here."

Neville joined Everton in 2005, following an 11-year spell with Manchester United, where he won six Premier League titles, four FA Cups and a Champions League title. He has made 131 appearances for Everton since his move, scoring three goals for the club.