Republic of Ireland International midfielder Darron Gibson has agreed a new deal with Manchester United that contracts him to the club until June 2012

The 21-year-old made 14 appearances in all competitions last season for the English Premier League champions and manager Sir Alex Ferguson has shown his faith in the Derry native by handing him a new contract.

Gibson, who made his senior International debut against Denmark in 2007 and played a big part in securing Ireland a 1-1 draw against Italy after coming on as a substitute in Bari in April, was delighted with the three-year deal.

He told the Manchester United official website: "I am very happy to commit my future to United.

"Last season I enjoyed every opportunity and when I got my chance I wanted to prove what I could do. I hope to continue that this season."

Sir Alex Ferguson also outlined his views on Gibson, who won a Carling Cup medal last season as well as scoring the only goal in the Red Devils' final day victory at Hull City.

He said: "Darron was one of the young players who emerged last season as a United first-team player," he told us.

"His appearance ratio did not really reflect the high regard in which we hold him, as he has constantly worked hard to challenge for a first-team spot."