Football: Danny Drinkwater signs new five-year deal with Leicester City

England's Danny Drinkwater warms up before the England vs Australia International Friendly at Stadium of Light in Sunderland on May 27, 2015. PHOTO: REUTERS

LONDON (Reuters) - Midfielder Danny Drinkwater has signed a new five-year deal with Leicester City that will keep him at the club until 2021, the Premier League champions announced on Thursday.

Drinkwater, who joined Leicester from Manchester United in 2012, was a mainstay in the club's fairytale campaign last season, making 35 league appearances for Claudio Ranieri's side.

"I've loved playing for this club, it's been perfect for me and my career and I want to be here for a long time to come. I couldn't be happier," Drinkwater told the club's website.

"I've grown a lot as a player and a person in the last four years and Leicester City has been a massive part of that. I owe a lot to the staff here for helping me get to this point - they've been quality."

The 26-year-old joins the likes of Riyad Mahrez, Jamie Vardy, Kasper Schmeichel and Wes Morgan in committing their long-term futures to the club.

Leicester, who are searching for their first league win of the season, host Swansea City on Saturday.

Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.