Nemanja Vidic has signed a contract extension that will keep him at Manchester United until 2012. Vidic, who joined United for £7m from Spartak Moscow on Christmas Day 2005, welcomed his new deal, which gives him an extra two years at the club.

"Playing in this team is a great privilege," said Vidic. "This is such a great club, I am delighted to be able to extend my stay here. The fans and everyone at the club have been very special to me. I hope I can do my bit to bring the club even more trophies in the years ahead."

The Serbian defender, who has played 69 times for United, has grown in stature during his time at the club, cementing a central defensive partnership with Rio Ferdinand.

Sir Alex Ferguson, who handed Vidic the captain's armband when Edwin van der Sar was substituted in United's 4-0 win over Dynamo Kyiv, praised the defender as a crucial member of the side. "Nemanja has made a terrific impact at the club," Ferguson said. "He is an extremely popular member of the squad, both with staff and fans alike. It's great news that he wants to be part of this exciting side for years to come."