Following speculative reports earlier, Everton have confirmed James McCarthy has agreed a new 5-year-contract.
McCarthy: “I’m buzzing and delighted really to be committing my future long-term to Everton,” McCarthy said. “I’ve loved every minute I’ve been here, with the fans having made me feel so welcome from day one, as well as the players and staff.
“This is a brilliant club with a brilliant fanbase and what we want to try to do is bring some success here and push forward.
“The gaffer is trying to build a team and a squad for the long-term and I’m excited to be a part of that and to be a part of this team.
“We have a big game on Saturday and a tough start to the campaign, but that’s the challenge and it’s one I’m delighted to embrace and to contribute to.
“We’re all looking forward to giving it a good go again this season and, for me, it’s a terrific challenge.”
Martinez: “When you are trying to shape a squad, the new faces are always important, but it’s vital to be able to build also on the continuity of top performers at the Club and James represents that.
“That vital element of continuity in the squad is a great boost for the Club, with James committing to a new, long-term contract.
“He has gone from strength to strength since his arrival here at the Club and he’s still a young man whom we want to see grow and continue to help the team to achieve success.
“At the age of 24, he’s already contributed immensely towards the team these past two seasons and the fact that the best years of his career lie ahead of him is something that is tremendously exciting for the team and for the fans.”