Jones signs new Sunderland deal

Jones has scored seven goals in all competitions this season

Striker Kenwyne Jones has ended speculation over his future by signing a new four-and-a-half-year contract with Sunderland.

The 24-year-old Trinidad & Tobago international had recently been heavily linked to Tottenham.

He told BBC Radio Newcastle: "I know the direction Sunderland want to head in and they've made me a part of that.

"If you're wanted by your manager and team-mates it gives you that boost to work hard - it is a delightful team."

Jones joined Sunderland from Southampton in 2007 for £6m and, after recovering from a knee injury last summer, he has formed a good partnership in recent weeks with Djibril Cisse.

Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp was keen to be reunited with Jones, who he had in his employ when the pair were at St Mary's.

However, Sunderland rejected several bids from the Londoners, the latest being an offer of £15m.

Black Cats boss Ricky Sbragia, who replaced Roy Keane in December, repeatedly insisted he wanted to keep Jones and said he would rather walk out of the club than sell his better players.

Jones added: "It makes you feel confident and special and makes you want to be at the place you're at.

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"I've been here for a year and a half now and I'm liking the place so there's nothing stopping me from committing my future here and thankfully today that happened.

"I'd like to thank the club and the fans for putting their support behind me."

A delighted Sbragia told Sunderland's website: "I'm absolutely delighted that Kenwyne has committed to the club for the long term.

"He's young, with a great future and has already proved to be a key player.

"The fact that we've had interest from top clubs shows how much of an asset he is and it's fantastic that he will be a Sunderland player for many years to come."