DAN Gosling has committed his future to Cherries until at least summer 2021 after penning a new four-year contract with the club.

 

The midfielder moved to Dean Court from Newcastle United in 2014 and had 12 months remaining on his previous deal.

 

Gosling told the Daily Echo in May he was keen to extend his Cherries stay despite finding game time difficult to come by during the 2016-17 campaign.

 

And after signing new terms, the 27-year-old told the club's website: “I’ve really enjoyed my three years here. It’s gone so fast but I believe I’ve improved immensely, working with the manager and his coaching staff.

 

“In that time we have gained promotion and spent two years in the Premier League, so it couldn’t have gone any better.

 

“My goal now is to be a mainstay in the side and keep adding to my game.”

 

Gosling started 28 matches in Cherries' debut top-flight campaign, but a mixture of injury and competition for places restricted the former Everton man to 14 starts last term.

 

Nevertheless, boss Howe has never hidden his admiration for the player and was thrilled to secure his services for the next four years.

 

He said: “I am delighted Dan has signed a new contract as he is a very important part of our squad and what we are trying to achieve here.

 

“He has great talent, huge energy and offers real quality to our midfield. Despite only being 27, Dan also has plenty of Premier League experience and that is crucial for a team that is still relatively new to the division.”

 

Cherries have already tied last season's player of the year Steve Cook to a new four-year deal this summer, and added sought-after trio Asmir Begovic, Jermain Defoe and Nathan Ake to the squad for next term.

 

Chief executive Neill Blake was delighted to conclude this latest piece of business.

 

“Dan’s new contract is great news for the long-term future of the club, as it underlines the importance we place on developing and retaining talented players," said Blake.

 

“Dan has played a key role in our journey to this point and we believe he can be just as crucial in the years ahead, as we look to build on our success.”