Beram Kayal has removed fears about his Albion future by signing a new two-and-a-half-year contract.

The influential Israeli midfielder's deal was due to expire next summer but he is now under contract until June 2019.

Boss Chris Hughton said: "It is important to us that we keep hold of our key players and we are absolutely delighted that Beram has signed his new contract.

"He thoroughly deserves it. He had an outstanding season for us last year and was a key player for us. He is a great professional and an important member of the team, on and off the pitch."

 

Kayal, 28, was voted 2015-16 player of the season as Albion just missed out on promotion.

He has been sidelined since September by a right ankle fracture sustained against Barnsley at the Amex (below).

The Argus: Hughton said: "He is making very good progress with his rehabilitation and now we look forward to welcoming him back to the squad soon, knowing he will have a significant role to play."

Kayal became Hughton's first signing when he arrived from Celtic in the 2015 January transfer window. He has made 72 appearances for Albion and scored three goals.

He is also an established international for Israel with Albion team-mate Tomer Hemed, winning 31 caps so far for his country and finding the net once.