Brazilian playmaker Geovanni has signed a new two-year contract with Hull City. The 29-year-old has scored ten goals in 44 appearances for the Tigers, including their first in the Premier League against Fulham 13 months ago.

He joined the club on a free transfer in July 2008, after being released by Manchester City. The former Barcelona and Benfica player was one of the stars of Hull's first season in the English top flight.

His new deal extends his previous arrangement by one year, committing him to the club until 2011. "It's fantastic, great news for me and great news for the club," said Hull manager Phil Brown.

It's fantastic, great news for me and great news for the club. I'm not just happy with his form, I'm happy with his work-rate.
Hull City manager Phil Brown on Geovanni signing a new contract

"He has committed for another two years and, who knows, maybe further. Maybe that could be a catalyst. He was a big player for us last year with eight goals and a number of assists.

"I'm not just happy with his form, I'm happy with his work-rate. He has certainly shown me that he has learnt the English way, the game we play it. He has fitted in very nicely this year."

Emirates memory
Geovanni scored one of his most memorable goals for Hull a year ago this weekend, in a stunning win at Arsenal. That victory sparked a four-match winning run that propelled the Tigers into the top three.

Form eventually deserted them and, after only narrowly avoiding relegation, Hull are now 19th after six games of the new season. Geovanni has featured in each of the matches, scoring twice, and says he is pleased to be staying at the KC Stadium.

"I am very happy, I am pleased to be here for two more years. I want to stay," he declared.