Strootman always knew he would extend Roma contract

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Roma midfielder Kevin Strootman is now keen to repay the faith, having been plagued by injuries.

Kevin Strootman said he decided a "long time ago" that he would sign a new deal with Roma after extending his contract in the Italian capital.

Roma received a boost on Monday when Strootman signed a new five-year contract to tie him to the Serie A runners-up until 2022.

"I'm happy here and I really like the city, the team, the football and Italy overall," Strootman told Roma's official website.

"There were some rumours in the press, but I have a good relationship with the directors and we were often in contact. I knew a long time ago I'd be staying here."

Asked if his love for Roma grew during his injury woes, Strootman added: "Definitely. It was the first time I had to deal with such a massive injury; I didn't play for two years. They all stood by me here, including the medical staff and everybody who works at the club.

"This is special and it's part of the reason I want to stay. I'm also staying at Roma because I want to win here, because everyone has told me that if I win something in this city it will be fantastic. I will do everything to lift a trophy here."