Israeli midfielder Beram Kayal extends contract with Brighton

Brighton midfielder Beram Kayal has agreed a one-year contract extension until June 2020.

The Israel international, 30, joined from Celtic in January 2015, becoming Chris Hughton’s first signing.

He has made just two Premier League appearances so far this season – both coming from the bench – and made just 12 starts last campaign, but is recognised a a big part of the squad by Hughton.

“I am delighted for Beram, he has been an important member of the squad and a very loyal servant to the club ever since he joined us almost four years ago,” the Brighton boss told the club website.

“He is a player I know I can rely on, and he demonstrated his dependability on Saturday against Spurs when he came on early in the game, and I thought he was excellent for us in midfield.

“He’s been through some tough times as well, coming through a couple of bad injuries, but he has always come back stronger and been a reliable member of the squad.

“Beram adds great competition for those midfield places, and I am really pleased he’s agreed to extend his time at the club.”

Kayal, who began his career with Maccabi Haifa, before moving joining Celtic in 2010, has so far made 110 appearances for Brighton, scoring four goals.