Saints midfielder Steven Davis has extended his contract with the club to 2018.

The 29-year-old's current deal was due to expire in 2016, but he has been rewarded for his fine form with a further two years.

Davis, the Northern Ireland captain, has been an integral part of the team since joining from Rangers in 2012, and has appeared in all nine of the club's matches this season.

“I’m delighted to have signed a new contract,” Davis said on Saints' official website.

“I’ve enjoyed my football since I came here and the club is continually progressing. I’m excited to see where we can go together over the next few years.

“It was a difficult summer for everyone involved, but the board stayed strong and the club made some really good signings in the manager and players that were brought in. 

“We’ve had an exciting start and we’re determined to go on and keep progressing. Nobody wants to stand still. 

“We want to get better – that goes for the team and myself. I’d like to win trophies and continually try to improve our league position, and I feel we can do that at this club.”

Saints manager Ronald Koeman added: “I’m very happy because Steven is one of the key players in the team. 

“He is an international player who is doing well this season, as he has for the last few seasons.

“Steven is not a person who stands out by shouting a lot, but his professionalism and performances are what sets him apart and makes him such a good example for the rest of the players.

“It is nice to see him happy here at the club. We are doing our job well, which means a lot for the club and all the players.”