Striker Luis Suarez has ensured there will be no January repeat of the transfer wrangling that dogged him in the close season by signing a new long-term contract with Liverpool, the Premier League club said on Friday.
Suarez, who has scored 17 goals in a blistering start to the campaign, thanked fans and cited their support since he returned to action following a 10-game ban for biting as a key factor in his decision. "I am delighted to have agreed a new deal with Liverpool and have my future secured for the long term," the Uruguayan, who was named captain for the 5-0 win over Tottenham Hotspur last weekend, said on the club website.
"Without doubt the backing I have received from the Liverpool fans has influenced my decision. I am so proud to represent them and go out to do my best for them every time I pull on the shirt. We have a special relationship; they have love for me and in return I love them back. I will always do my best for them and hopefully we can achieve success together."
The BBC reported the deal to be 4-1/2 years and worth 200,000 pounds ($327,000) per week to Suarez over the final four years of the contract and 160,000 pounds per week until the end of this season.