Arnautovic signs most pointless contract extension ever

Matt Stead

Marko Arnautovic has signed a contract extension with West Ham, the Premier League club have announced.

The club did not specify the length of Arnautovic’s new deal, but it is reported to be an extra one year to 2023.

The Austrian had been linked with a big-money move to China but has now committed his future to the Hammers.

He did not feature in the FA Cup defeat to Wimbledon, having reportedly been told by the Hammers that he can leave.

West Ham said in a statement: “West Ham United is pleased to confirm that Marko Arnautovic has signed a contract extension.

“The Austrian has reiterated his 100 per cent commitment to the Hammers after opting to put an end to speculation linking him with a move to China by extending his deal with the club.”

Arnautovic said: “I’m happy for this and I want to say to the fans that I’m happy to stay, I glad to play again, show myself and score goals, to make assists, but also to say that the major point is Marko Arnautovic never refused [to play or train]. I would never refuse.

“I’m happy, I’m happy to come to this point. I’m happy that this club is improving. Step by step, every week, every month we are seeing some improvement and that’s good.”

This definitely isn’t just to ensure West Ham get a little more money when they sell him in the summer.