Liverpool defender Martin Kelly has signed a new long term contract at Anfield.

The 22 year old has missed most of the season through injury having suffered cruciate knee ligament damage during September's loss to Manchester United, keeping him out until at least March.

And Kelly is thrilled that Liverpool's faith in him remains strong despite his injury nightmare.

Martin Kelly
Kelly has penned a new long term deal.

"I'm delighted to have signed. It means everything to me and my family. I've been at Liverpool since I was seven, so it's in my heart and I love the club," the England Under-21 international said.

"When you play in the Liverpool shirt, you have to show the fans what it means. I just love playing and trying my hardest for the supporters and for my family.

"Being a Liverpool supporter myself, it's brilliant to put the shirt on and I'm doing what I have loved doing since I was a kid. I'm over the moon.

"Today shows the faith that the club have in me and that the hard work I have put in since I was young has paid off. Hopefully I'll put the injuries behind me.

"We have excellent medical staff here, who are going to work me and keep me on top of my injury. I'll be coming back even stronger."

Kelly's commitment to Liverpool comes a day after Jamie Carragher, a veteran of over 700 matches for The Reds, confirmed his retirement from the game at the end of the season.

He becomes the latest Liverpool youngster to put pen to a new contract in recent months with Raheem Sterling, Jonjo Shelvey and Suso among those to have agreed new deals, while first-team regulars Luis Suarez, Daniel Agger and Martin Skrtel have all renewed terms

"It's fantastic news and it runs on from various other players who have committed to us," managing director Ian Ayre said.

"I think everybody has been starting to see and enjoy Martin's potential and the work he has showed to get into the first team and these are the things we are looking for.

"He was very unfortunate to get his injury but he has worked very hard with the physios and the medical team and hopefully we'll see him back soon.

"Signing him up for the long term is very important for us."

Manchester United FC