Tottenham midfielder Darren Anderton has signed a one-year extension to his contract that will keep him at White Hart Lane until 2000. Anderton's career has been on hold for much of the past two seasons because of recurring injuries. The England player put pen to paper yesterday to confirm to the Spurs faithful that his heart and playing future lie with the north London club.
He is determined to prove to the fans that he is committed to the Premiership strugglers, despite their perilous position second from bottom of the table.
Anderton, who is in the Spurs squad for today's clash with Barnsley, said: "There is no other team I want to play for, and that is why I agreed to sign the new contract."
The 25-year-old also had some encouraging news on his injury troubles and his belief that Tottenham can begin a move up the Premiership table under manager Christian Gross.
Anderton has been restricted to eight appearances this season - five as substitute - and has failed to finish any of the three games he has started.
Gross is prepared to be patient with the midfielder, however, and Anderton added: "I am getting fitter and stronger all the time.
"I also believe that we will battle our way out of this present position. Certainly the attitude of the players is one of determination."
A Spurs spokesman welcomed the deal and added: "There was a mutual feeling that both sides had missed a year because of his injury problems.
"He's had the frustration of being unable to play while we have not had the opportunity of watching a world-class player in action.
"This agreement rectifies the matter. Darren has always insisted that he has only wanted to play for Tottenham and this decision is a tremendous boost for all at White Hart Lane."