Manchester United have agreed a contract extension with Republic of Ireland midfielder Darron Gibson to keep him at Old Trafford until 2012. The 21-year-old is highly regarded by United boss Alex Ferguson and enjoyed a breakthrough season last term when he made 14 appearances for the Red Devils.

He was a key part of their Carling Cup success and marked his potential on the final day of the season when he scored the only goal of the game against Hull City with a spectacular long-range strike.

“I am very happy to commit my future to United,” he told www.ManUtd.com. “Last season I enjoyed every opportunity and when I got my chance I wanted to prove what I could do. I hope to continue that this season.”

Gibson also became a regular with the Republic of Ireland last season and Ferguson said he expected the player to push for a first-team place at Old Trafford this season.

“Darron was one of the young players who emerged last season as a United first-team player,” he said. “His appearance ratio did not really reflect the high regard in which we hold him, as he has constantly worked hard to challenge for a first team spot.”