Manchester City midfielder Stephen Ireland has signed a new five-year deal at Eastlands.
The 22-year-old was the star performer in Mark Hughes' side in 2008/09 and the club have been understandably keen to secure his long-term future.
Discussions have been ongoing for a number of weeks and an agreement has now been reached.
After putting pen-to-paper, Ireland does not see any reason why he will ever leave City and he has set his sights on challenging for the Premier League title.
He told the club's official website: "It was something that I've been worrying about for a few months but now it's done I can enjoy the summer.
"I never had any doubts about staying. Regardless, I was going to be here, and hopefully for the remainder of my career. I don't see why not. I really want to become a hero here, to hopefully achieve things.
"I'm settled here - I love the club, I love the fans, and I don't see what's going to make me leave this club.
"These are very exciting times. It's going to be interesting just to see what the line-up will be at the start of next season and how far we can push on. Hopefully we can compete for the title and get back into Europe."
Ireland undertook a rigorous fitness programme last summer and Hughes believes the midfielder has reaped the rewards.
The City boss said: "Stephen's new contract is great news for everyone concerned. He was outstanding all season and is now one of the best midfielders in the Premier League.
"He thoroughly deserves all the praise that has gone his way after the hard work that he undertook last summer, and I know that he is already aiming to do even better for us next season and beyond".
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