El Zhar signs new Liverpool deal

El Zhar scored on his senior debut for Morocco against Belgium in 2008

Liverpool forward Nabil El Zhar has signed a contract extension that is set to keep him at Anfield until 2012.

He joined the Reds from French side St Etienne in October 2006.

The 22-year-old Moroccan international made 19 appearances for the first team last season, helping the club finish second in the Premier League.

Meanwhile Liverpool have completed the signing of French left-back Chris Mavinga, 18, from French outfit Paris St Germain.

Mavinga, can also play in the central defence and has represented his country at under-18 level.

El Zhar follows Steven Gerrard, Fernando Torres, Dirk Kuyt, Yossi Benayoun and Daniel Agger in committing his long-term future to the club.

El Zhar was born in France and played for Les Bleus at youth level before opting to play for Morocco, where his parents were raised.

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He was recruited by Liverpool after impressing during the 2005 World Youth Championships where he helped Morocco reach the semi-final stage.

El Zhar's senior Liverpool debut came as substitute against Portsmouth in 2006, and his only goal to date came at Anfield in a 2-1 victory over Cardiff in the fourth round of the Carling Cup in 2007.