Hibs announce new two-year deal for star midfielder Joe Newell

Joe Newell has signed a contract extension with Hibs. Picture: SNS

The Englishman has been one of the club’s most influential players this season with Jack Ross' men sitting third in the Premiership.

His current contract was due to expire at the end of the season but the player has put pen to paper on a two-year extension with the option of a further year.

Newell’s importance at Hibs has come about following a positional change after a slow start, moving from out wide into the centre of the pitch.

“I’m really pleased to have agreed the contract and it was an easy decision, to be honest," the 27-year-old told Hibs’ official website.

“I’ve said consistently how happy I am here, on and off the pitch.

"If it’s taken a bit of time to get it finalised then it’s because there was never any need to rush it from either side. My focus has been on getting back fit and it was a relief to be back involved on Saturday.

“We’re in a great position to push on and make it a special season.

“Beyond that, I spoke to the gaffer and Graeme Mathie about their plans for the club in general and it was all positive. I want to be part of that.

“The news seems to have been a bit more positive recently in the wider world. Having supporters back for a crack at European football is something I’d love to experience.”

Newell joined the club in the summer of 2019 from Rotherham United, signed by former boss Paul Heckingbottom.

He started just 13 league games in his first season, mostly on the left of midfield, while also suffering calf and ankle issues.

This campaign, however, he has been central to Ross' team, putting in a raft of impressive, composed and controlling performances in midfield.

“Joe is a really good player who has enjoyed a terrific season,” the Hibs boss said.

“He’s thrived playing centrally and I believe he can continue to improve. His ambitions and the club’s ambitions are very much aligned.”