O'Brien deal makes statement to younger pros

This may still be the case however with contract extensions appearing to mean little in today’s game. Luis Boa Morte signed a new contract with Fulham this month to end speculation linking him with a move to Newcastle but has since stated his remaining ambition to play for a bigger club and even Hugo Vianna signed a new contract with us before he departed for a year long loan spell in Portugal.

The Republic of Ireland international was seen by most supporters as a sellable asset and someone who could perhaps command a transfer fee in the £2million region.

Graeme Souness said of the matter,

“It is great news that Andy's signed a new contract.

"Andy has extended his contract and I a delighted about that. Although we have signed a centre back for a lot of money he still fancies his chances here.

"He's up for the fight and that's what we want - a squad of players with the attitude he's got.

"He's been a very solid performer for this club in the last few years and given his age he is only going to get better so I am absolutely delighted.

"If we're going to achieve anything at this club its with people like Andy and it is characters like this I want the dressing room full of.

It is perhaps Souness’ last comment that tells the biggest story. Offering a contract extension to a model professional like O’Brien makes a statement of the conduct standards Souness expects and that attaining this level of professionalism will result in reward.

The ex-Bradford City centre back is not good enough for where, as a club, we want to go. But, as Souness quite rightly stated, a player who is willing to knuckle down and prove his worth can only be a positive influence on some of our younger talent who had perhaps previously used people like Craig Bellamy and Kieron Dyer as their role models.