Ipswich Town defender Tommy Smith has extended his stay at Portman Road until 2016.

East Anglian Daily Times: Tommy Smith signs his new contract watched by managing director Jonathan SymondsTommy Smith signs his new contract watched by managing director Jonathan Symonds (Image: Archant)

This season’s Player of the Year has formed a rock-solid central defensive partnership with Luke Chambers and was due to be out-of-contract at the end of the 2013/14 campaign.

“I’m delighted to extend my stay at Town,” said Smith, speaking on the club’s website.

“It’s great that the club have shown loyalty with me and that I’ve shown my loyalty to the club as well.

“I’ve been here since I was 16-years-old and I love the club. Hopefully I can be here for a few more years to come and we can be successful.

“The club means a lot to me and I’ve developed a great relationship with the fans. It’s also great to see players coming out of the Academy and into the first-team, like myself, Luke Hyam and Josh Carson.”

New Zealand international Smith, who featured in the 2010 World Cup and last year’s London Olympics, has made 112 appearances for the Blues, scoring 10 goals.

The 23-year-old has also had loan spells at Brentford, Colchester and Stevenage.

For more reaction, see tomorrow’s East Anglian Daily Times.