It speaks to the positive feeling at Crystal Palace that Eberechi Eze has committed his future to the Eagles, rather than holding out for a glitzy move elsewhere.
For a time this summer it looked like Eze might leave for Manchester City, before the champions opted to sign Matheus Nunes from Wolves instead.
Eze's new three-and-a-half-year deal, confirmed on Friday, extends his stay until summer 2027, and gives him the chance to establish himself as a Palace modern great.
"I'm delighted to have signed for the club for another three-and-a-half years," Eze told the club's website. "I'm now in my fourth season with the club and I've enjoyed it so far. I'm loving every moment. Hopefully the fans can expect more of the same in the future, God willing.
"I'm praying for exciting performances, fun times, goals and wins."
Palace chairman Steve Parish added: "I'm absolutely delighted ... as an England international and proven performer at Premier League level, his talents are well-known, but he also brings with that an exemplary mentality and character in everything he does."
"There is so much to admire about him as a young footballer and a young man, and his new contract is just reward for his performances and impact on the team. It is absolutely fantastic news for everybody associated with our club."
A new contract does not eradicate the possibility of Eze leaving Palace at a later date, but the Eagles would now get a better fee if he did.
For two years, the centre-back partnership of Joachim Andersen and Marco Guehi has given Palace a solid base. The key for them to kick on, starting with Saturday's home match against Everton, is honing their attack.
New contracts for Eze and — earlier this season — Michael Olise show not only chairman Steve Parish and sporting director Dougie Freedman's desire to do that, but also the duo's willingness to be part of Palace's future. What a boost.
