Liverpool forward Dirk Kuyt has signed a two-year extension to
his contract, tying him to the Merseyside club until at least
2012.
The 28-year-old Holland international's current deal was due to
expire at the end of next season and manager Rafael Benitez is
delighted Kuyt has joined captain Steven Gerrard, who also
committed his long-term future to Liverpool on Friday.
''This is another great piece of news for the club," Benitez told
the club's website.
''Dirk had one year left on his contract and we were keen for him
to stay. He is a player with great quality who has a big part to
play in our future. We are delighted to have reached an
agreement.
''To have announced new deals for Steven and Dirk on the same day
shows how hard everyone is working and that we are moving forward
quickly as a club. These are very positive messages and I am very
happy.''
Liverpool announced earlier today that Gerrard had signed a deal
which will keep him at Anfield until 2013.
Kuyt joined Liverpool from Feyenoord in the summer of 2006 and has
been transformed from a striker into a right-winger.
He has scored 10 goals in 41 appearances for the Reds this season
and has emerged as a key figure in Benitez's title-chasing
team.
Liverpool are currently one point behind Barclays Premier League
leaders Manchester United having played a game more than their
bitter rivals.