Kevin McDonald has signed a two-year contract extension with Fulham, the club has confirmed this afternoon.

The Scottish international, a key part of Slavisa Jokanovic’s promotion-winning side last year, will now stay at Craven Cottage until at least the summer of 2020 with the Whites holding an option to extend the deal by another year. McDonald has been one of Fulham’s unsung heroes since signing from Wolves two years ago and has made 94 appearances in front of the back four. He joins captain Tom Cairney and centre back Tim Ream in committing their future to Fulham this summer.

Although primarily a holding player concerned with keeping the opposition at bay, McDonald scored some vital goals as the Whites put together a 23-match unbeaten run towards the end of the Championship season. He popped up with a crucial close-range strike to help Fulham come from behind to win at Barnsley and then scored an incredible effort to double the Whites’ lead at Millwall.

The 29 year-old told Fulham’s official website that he was happy to successfully conclude negotiations on his new deal:

Obviously I’m delighted. I feel settled here, it’s a great place to play, it’s got everything needed for a Premier League club, and thankfully that’s what we are. Hopefully we can kick on this season, it’s been a great couple of years and – having extended my contract – I couldn’t be happier.

Fulham’s vice-chairman and head of football of operations, Tony Khan, said:

I’m pleased to announce that Fulham Football Club has signed a contract extension for Kevin McDonald. Kevin’s presence within our squad and the positive effect he has on his teammates cannot be underestimated. Of course, Kevin made important contributions to our great success last season, so now it’s fitting that he will be contributing to our future successes as well!