Rankin agrees United deal

John Rankin: Verbally agreed a new deal at Dundee United

Dundee United midfielder John Rankin has verbally agreed a new contract to extend his stay at Tannadice.

The 28-year-old moved to United last summer on a two-year deal, but is now set to stay on for a further year, until the end of the 2013/14 season, after being ever-present for United this term.

United boss Peter Houston confirmed the former Hibs man has pledged his future to the club.

"He has verbally agreed. The chairman (Stephen Thompson) has been speaking to his agent," Houston told STV.

"I spoke to John with regards to it and he's told his agent to get it sorted and signed up.

"I'm delighted for John. He has been an exceptional player since signing from Hibs.

"He's been consistent and one of the only players that's played every single game.

"He's been a huge credit for himself and I'm pleased to keep him on board.

"He deserves the extra year on his contract. He's earned it."