Gilberto Silva has handed Arsenal a major boost by signing a long-term contract.
Brazilian midfielder Gilberto Silva has handed Arsenal a major boost by signing a long-term contract extension.Gunner chief Arsene Wenger saw key midfielders Patrick Vieira and Edu fly the nest this summer, which increased the reliance on Gilberto, who joined the club from Atletico Mineiro in July 2002.
The Samba star has risen to the occasion by producing some assured displays in the centre of the park for Arsenal in the early weeks of the new campaign.
Wenger is aware of Gilberto's qualities and has ensured he remains an integral part of his future thinking by handing him a new deal which ties the player to the club until the summer of 2009.
A statement on Arsenal's website read: "Arsenal is delighted to announce that Gilberto has signed a long term extension to his contract with the club until 2009.
"Everyone at Arsenal is looking forward to enjoying Gilberto's continued contribution in the forthcoming seasons."
