Norway international John Arne Riise signed a new extension deal with Liverpool that will see him stay at Anfield until 2009, the Premiership club announced on the official website on Friday.

"I'm delighted that John has signed a new deal with us. He is a dedicated player, very professional and he has a great mentality. His attitude is first class. He trains well and works hard every day,” Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez told the official club site.

The 25-year-old defender, who joined the Reds from French side Monaco in 2001, played a pivotal role in Liverpool’s UEFA Champions League victory last season and has continued to become a key squad member ever since.

The left-sided international has also been known to operate whether in midfield or defence and has scored 23 goals in 235 appearances during his time at Anfield until now.

Benitez praised the player’s diverse skills and voiced his happiness in signing the player on an extension deal that will see him continue to feature in the club’s coming matches for the next three years.

"He has always done a good job for Liverpool, whether at left back or in left midfield, and it's great news that we can include him in our plans for the coming years," Benitez said.