New Saints deal for Long

Republic of Ireland international Shane Long has signed a new four-year deal with Southampton.

Long had attracted interest from several Premier League clubs after netting 13 times in 34 appearances for the Saints last season before going on to start all four of Ireland's matches at Euro 2016.

Despite reported interested from Liverpool and Tottenham, the 29-year-old has committed to Southampton with a new deal that will keep him at St Mary's until 2020.

"I'm delighted. I'm excited to be part of what could be a big future in the next four years for this club," Long told the club's official website.

"I love it here, the set-up, the training ground, the lads as well - everyone around the club.

"It's a real family feel, and I feel like I'm a big part of that and I feel like I'm playing my best football here as well.

"I've enjoyed every minute down here. I'm happy, my family are happy, and it's a good place to be."

Executive director of football Les Reed added: "Shane has been an important asset to the team ever since his arrival at the club in 2014 and he was an influential part of our record-breaking Premier League campaign last season.

"His experience and character also make him an extremely valuable member of the squad off the pitch, as well as on it, and I am delighted we have strengthened our commitment with him.

"Shane is the latest in a significant number of first-team players to have signed new contracts with the club in recent weeks and months, indicating the players' belief that there is more to come, while further strengthening the core of our squad as we move into what promises to be another memorable campaign.

"Shane is one of many exciting attacking options that we have at our disposal, and he will no doubt play an important part in the season and the years ahead."