Mignolet: All credit to Flanno over new deal
Jon Flanagan's new contract is deserved reward for the hard work he has put in to bounce back from a 20-month injury nightmare, according to Liverpool teammate Simon Mignolet.
The Scouse defender's Anfield stay was officially extended on Friday as his efforts since returning to action after being plagued by knee problems since the end of the 2013-14 season were recognised.
And Mignolet could not be happier for a colleague who he says always stayed positive throughout that gruelling rehabilitation process.
"All credit to him because he’s worked really hard in his rehab to come back from injury," the No.22 told Liverpoolfc.com.
"He was always there with a smile on his face, even when times were tough and he was in the gym unable to train or feature in the squad.
"He was always there to support everybody and was always in a positive mood so all credit to not only him but also the medical staff who did a great job to get him back fit."
LFCTV GO subscribers can see Mignolet discuss Flanagan's new deal above
Flanno has looked equally comfortable on either side of the defence since making his breakthrough to the Reds first team, with his commitment in the challenge and coollness in possession often shining through.
The club's Belgian goalkeeper insists those qualities have not diminished during the No.37's absence through injury, and expects him to play a big part under Jürgen Klopp going forward.
"I think in the few games he’s played [since returning] and in training sessions he’s [shown] he is a really good defender, he’s got that aggressiveness, and I’m sure he can help the team in the future," he added.
"Every time somebody asks him to do a job, he will be there without hesitation to help the team out. He won’t be speaking loudly or noticeable, but he will be there to help you.
"That’s very important for a defender. I hope he stays injury free and can continue - because he’s only young as well – the way he is at the moment because he’s a very good player and he can definitely help us out."
Mignolet also recognised the importance of retaining a local influence at a club that has brought through Scousers such as Jamie Carragher, Steven Gerrard, Phil Thompson and Tommy Smith, among many others.
"I think it’s very important for the fans to be able to see that a local lad is able to play for Liverpool," he continued.
"For the young kids who play here they can look up to these guys and can try to do the same. He’s a great role model.
"There have been a lot of them in the past, local boys who came through and became superstars, and he’s got every chance to do that himself as well."