ADAM Smith deserved his contract extension as he continues to impress Andoni Iraola in the Premier League.

The English defender signed a contract extension which will keep him at AFC Bournemouth until the summer of 2026, at least.

Now club captain after the departure of Neto on loan to Arsenal, Smith started in Saturday’s defeat to Chelsea at the Vitality Stadium.

Iraola said he has been, and will continue to be, a key player for the club. “You can see it, he's been very important,” Iraola said.

“He was very important past season, very important this season. I've talked a lot of times about Adam.

“I think he realises, and he understands the game and that he has to earn every season.

“Once you get to an age, every season, you have to earn the right to continue playing in the Premier League.

“He has done it brilliantly and he has absolutely deserved this.”