Jack Rodwell insists he "always knew" he was going to sign a new deal with Everton, despite reported interest from Manchester United.
The 19-year-old committed himself to the Toffees on a new five-year contract in May - and says he never had any doubt he would stay put.
He told the Liverpool Echo: "When these questions were getting asked (about my future) I always knew I was going to sign a new contract.
"I didn't have a doubt in my mind. It's good to get it out of the way so I can focus on the new season, but it was never an issue."
Rodwell has now set his sights on securing a regular place in the Everton starting line-up in what he has labelled a "massive season".
He added: "I'm 19 so I'm still young, but my main aim is to get in the team and hold down a regular place. Last season was good for me and even if I only feature in a similar way it's not the end of the world."
