Linfield boss David Healy says he held some "honest conversations" with club legend Jamie Mulgrew before offering the veteran midfielder a new contract.
Mulgrew has put pen-to-paper on a one-year extension which will keep him at Windsor Park until the end of the 2025/2026 season.
It will see the 38-year-old midfielder complete his 20th season with the Blues, and Healy insists the club captain can continue to play a pivotal role in their success.
Healy told the club's website: "Jamie has played an integral role in the modern-day history of Linfield Football Club over the past two decades and I'm pleased that we're able to offer him this extension which will take him up to his 20th season with the club.
"Jamie and I have very honest conversations with each other and we both feel he has a key part to play both this season and next. He has shown this season that he still has the quality, fitness and desire to play in the top level of domestic football here in Northern Ireland.
"He is a credit to himself for the hard work that he puts in to sustain such impressive longevity as a professional footballer. He is a player who has given so much to this club and the local game."
Mulgrew also voiced his delight at the new deal, and insists he still has plenty to offer the Blues in the months ahead.
He said: "I am really happy. I still feel as if I am contributing to the team. I'm injured at the minute but I played a long run of games there and felt really good and fit.
"When the club spoke to me I was delighted and happy to continue on. It is important to say I am honest enough person to know when my time is up. The same with the manager and Willie (McKeown). We know where we all stand."
Sign up to our free sports newsletter to get the latest headlines to your inbox
English (United States)