Old Trafford officials have now confirmed the 26-year-old will remain at United until 2012.

“John has developed in his years here and is now regarded as one of the more experienced players,” said United boss Alex Ferguson.

“He has proved through his personality and professionalism he is an outstanding credit to the club and I am delighted he has signed a new contract.”

Although the Waterford-born player has rarely been a regular member of what would constitute Ferguson's first-choice side, he has nevertheless proved to be an integral part of the United squad.

At either centre-half, full-back or in central midfield, O’Shea has rarely let Ferguson down.

He has now played well over 250 games for United and his late goals against Liverpool and Everton on Merseyside last season were viewed as major factors in the club’s Premier League title success.

With Nemanja Vidic also recently signing a new deal and contracts in the offing for Patrice Evra and Wes Brown, when Ferguson celebrates his 66th birthday on New Year’s Eve it is clear that he is building for the future.

And O’Shea is delighted to be part of it.

“I am extending my contract with the champions,” said O’Shea. “I have been at the club since the age of 17 and it is a dream come true to play for such a great club.

“I hope to play my part in bringing more trophies to the club and to continuing the success with this young, exciting team. I would like to thank the boss, the staff and the fans for their continued support.”