Idrissa Gueye raves about Everton fans after contract extension.
Idrissa Gueye has told Everton’s official website that the support from the Goodison Park faithful was a big factor in his decision to extend his stay on Merseyside.
The Senegal midfielder signed a new deal on Tuesday which could keep him at Everton until 2022.
Gueye is a popular figure among Toffees fans since joining the club from Aston Villa for £7.1 million in 2016.
Last season, the 28-year-old managed 135 tackles – more than any other player in the Premier League – and the Everton fans have come to appreciate his work ethic in defensive midfield.
And the man himself has told the club’s official website that the affection is mutual.
“I am very happy to sign a new contract with Everton. It is great for me and for the club and I am very happy.
“I love the fans here. They have been great to me. They made it easy for me to sign this contract.
“Of course, I spoke with my family and my agent, but the love of the fans was really important and this is a really good thing for me.”
Historically, Sam Allardyce has used towering players in defensive midfield, such as Steven N’Zonzi or Cheikhou Kouyate, so his backing of Gueye – who stands at 5 foot 7 – speaks volumes and perhaps it’s an indication that he and Director of Football Steve Walsh won’t be in the market for someone to replace the former Villa star this summer.
There hasn’t been many plus points in what has been a pretty disastrous season for Everton, given their outlay was in excess of £150 million during the off-season, but Gueye is a rare positive and fans will be delighted over the confirmation of his contract.
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