Skrtel signs new Liverpool deal

Liverpool defender Martin Skrtel has committed his long-term future to Anfield, after signing a new contract with the club.

The 27-year-old Slovakian international has been a revelation in England, since first arriving on Merseyside four-and-a-half years ago, and was voted the Reds player of the season in 2011-12.

"I'm happy because I am a part of one of the biggest clubs in the world," Skrtel told Liverpool's official website. "After last season there was a lot of talk about my future but I have to say that the first priority for me was always to sign a new deal with Liverpool.

"For me it's a great thing to play for Liverpool. I am proud to play for Liverpool with these great players - probably some of the best players in the world.

"I hope I can create history at this club and that the fans will always remember me - that's my target for the future."

With 175 appearances to date, Skrtel has established himself as one of the Premier League's best defenders over the past couple of seasons, and now he hopes to push on and achieve more success at Anfield.

"I can say the last two seasons were really good for me - probably the best two seasons of my career. If I can repeat the performances of the last two years this season I can be happy.

"A lot of things have changed, a new manager has come. I think we can start to make history and I want to be a part of that history.

"We have our target. For this season it is the top four and I hope we can do it. Then we will see."