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It's now gloriously official, which is better than 720p, 1080p, and 4K combined. Mamadou Sakho has signed a new contract until 2020. That's prime Mamadou Sakho at Liverpool after he turns 30. Delicious.
A delighted Sakho told the official site of his happiness on Merseyside and commitment to pushing Liverpool forward. The 25-year-old has been a wonderful ambassador for the club since he arrived in September 2013 and will be integral in the club's efforts to progress over the coming years.
I am very happy to sign a long-term contract with Liverpool because, as I've always said, I am very happy here and my family are happy in Liverpool. I will keep working because I am a Liverpool soldier and when Liverpool need me, I try to give my best. I am happy to stay as a Scouser! I work all the time 100 per cent, I try to stay professional and I give my best for this city and this club. It is important for me because every day when I wake up, I am very happy to come into the training ground with all the players.
This week, Sakho reached a milestone by captaining Liverpool for the first time in his native France, but the imposing and composed defender has worn a captain's armband before as he was the youngest player to have done so in Ligue 1.
The Frenchman has the quality to easily be a first-choice player in the way Jordan Henderson and Philippe Coutinho have been for Brendan Rodgers over the past two seasons. Their presence helps the team to function more effectively, but their absence always underlines how important they are. Sakho is the same, and this weekend, normal order must resume.
This is unexpected news that's gratefully received. Sakho says he's "happy to stay a Scouser", but Liverpool fans should be even happier to count on a player and personality who brings so much to the club.
