Galloway pledges future to Everton with new long-term contract

Brendan Galloway has expressed his delight after signing a new five-year contract extension with Everton.

The 19-year-old has put pen-to-paper on a new deal through to June 2020, capping a fine few months for the former MK Dons youngster.

Galloway joined Everton in the summer of 2014 but only made his senior debut in April of this year. Since then though the teenager has been a regular in and around the first team.

Galloway has made 18 appearances for Everton so far, covering for the injured Leighton Baines at left back for much of this season, though his long-term position is likely to be in the centre.

The new deal is reward for his progression from youth team to the senior squad, following the likes of Ross Barkley and John Stones, who signed new long-term contracts following their emergence as a first-team player.

It also sends out a message to other young players that Everton offer a clear path to the first-team squad and that hard work and dedication will be rewarded.

Speaking of his new contract, Galloway said:

"I’m really happy to commit my future here.

"This is a club that has got so much young talent and is moving forward. It’s great to be able to commit to being a part of that.

"My family came up to watch me sign so it was nice to have them around. They have been with me all the way."

His manager, Roberto Martinez, said:

"Brendan arrived at the Football Club with a very clear development path in front of him but the reality is that he has surpassed that.

"Then he joined the first team environment and he has developed into an important player and a very good performer. At Everton we will always reward those who deserve it.

"This is another step forward. He is still a young man but one with a fantastic personality. This is a day for him to celebrate with his family, but also one for everyone connected with Everton to recognise a young man who has come through and done so well."