ST Johnstone yesterday secured keeper Alan Mannus on a new two year deal.
Perth manager Tommy Wright was eager to hold onto the Northern Ireland international he has coached for club and country.
The 32-year-old former Linfield and Shamrock Rovers number one had been linked with a move south of the border.
Perth fans also feared there could be interest from rivals in Scotland.
But now his future has been secured and Wright is delighted.
He said: "Alan has been arguably our most consistent player over the last few seasons, since making the jersey his own."
Saints, who head up the A9 tonight to face an in-form Ross County side which has hauled themselves clear of the basement, are pushing for their fourth successive top six place.
And Mannus has played an integral role in their success, including last term's Scottish Cup win.
Wright said: "We have got Alan signed up for another two years beyond the summer with an option there for a third year.
"I rate Alan among the best in the business so this is a huge boost to everyone here.
"We knew there would be clubs showing an interest if he felt it was time to move on and that was hardly surprising given his track record.
"But we know he was happy here and that went a long way in his decision making. The most important thing is that Alan has demonstrated that he wants to be here by signing the new contract."
Wright is tipping fitness fanatic Mannus to stay beyond 2017.
He said: "I wouldn't bet against Alan playing on into his late thirties, maybe even the forties. He is in superb condition and is utterly professional."
Saints will make changes for the trip to Dingwall with striker Steven MacLean returning. He wasn't risked on the astro at Hamilton Accies.
And midfielder Murray Davidson is ruled out with a knee injury.
He will undergo an x-ray and while Wright confirmed it as the same knee which kept him sidelined for months, he stressed it wasn't linked with the patellar tendon problem.
Assessing the Ross County clash, he said: "We know a victory would secure our top six place so that is the target. But we know it won't be easy up there."
Mannus said: "I'm delighted to sign for two further years. I've thoroughly enjoyed my time here so far and I could not have hoped to have been treated any better by everyone within the club and the supporters.
"I look forward to finishing the season part of a squad who hopefully secure a place in the top six and then hopefully contribute to another good season next year and beyond."
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