Portsmouth stalwarts Matthew Taylor and Gary O'Neil have signed new long-term deals.
Young Portsmouth stalwarts Matthew Taylor and Gary O'Neil have signed new long-term deals to stay on the South Coast.The pair played a vital part in securing Pompey's Premiership status, chipping in with a combined effort of 12 goals out of 47 in the league for the top flight strugglers, last term.
Penalty-taker Taylor, 24, has signed a four-year deal at Fratton Park, while midfielder O'Neil, 23, has signed for five years.
Harry Redknapp signed Taylor from Luton Town back in 2002, and he has become a mainstay of the team since. O'Neill meanwhile, became the youngest Pompey debutant ever in January 2000, and Redknapp is delighted to have secured both players' commitment to the cause.
"They have both earned the rewards and are poised to continue to work hard and be up there amongst England's finest," Redknapp commented.
"We intend to be a match for the best clubs in this league, and for this we need to keep hold of our best young and talented players."
Taylor has made over 130 starts for the club, while O'Neil has 117 league and cup starts under his belt, and Redknapp will be hoping all of their combined experience can keep the team safely away from the relegation dogfight this time round.
