Linfield skipper Jamie Mulgrew says a hunger to play more games and win more silverware were the key drivers behind his decision to sign a new contract with the club.
Mulgrew, who has made 655 appearances for the Blues since arriving at Windsor Park from Glentoran in 2005, has put pen-to-paper on a one year extension until 2023.
The 35-year-old has already won nine league titles, seven Irish Cups and numerous other trophies with the Big Two giants.
But a strong desire to add more highlights to an already highly decorated Irish League career lay behind his decision to commit to at least another season of frontline action.
“It’s about winning games and being successful at Linfield and that is something I am still hungry for,” said Mulgrew.
“I have been here for a period of time, but I’m still hungry to be successful and offer something on the pitch and play on longer.
“I think it was evident that I don’t want to go anywhere else, but you only get offered contracts if you’re contributing on the pitch.
“I still feel I have a lot to offer. I still feel fit and good within myself and I’m enjoying the full-time aspect of the club now.”
Mulgrew, who captained Linfield to the double last season, is relishing the growing profile and competitiveness of the Danske Bank Premiership.
Glentoran’s recent revival under Ali Pour’s ownership and manager Mick McDermott has also brought the Big Two rivalry into sharp focus again.
David Healy's men lie just three points clear of the Glens and five above Cliftonville, who welcome the Blues to Solitude on Tuesday, heading into the business end of the campaign.
“It should excite us as players that we have these challenges ahead and I know it’s something we’ll meet head on,” Mulgrew told the Linfield website.
“We have confidence in our ability and we should embrace the fact we’re at the top of the league because that’s where we want to be and stay.
“You play in big games all the time at this club and it’s something you look forward to. We will embrace that challenge and be excited for the games coming up.”
While Mulgrew, a future Irish League manager in waiting, was recently appointed coach of Linfield Rangers, he insists his full focus remains on the playing side of things.
“Taking on the Rangers team is a new experience for me and Conor (Pepper) and hopefully it’s something I’ll learn from,” he said.
“I’ve enjoyed it so far, but first and foremost, the playing side of it is at the forefront of my mind. That’s the most important thing.”
Linfield boss David Healy said: "Jamie epitomises everything I want in a Linfield player and he's hungry for more success here."
