Scotland international John Fleck admits he had no hesitation in signing a new three-and-a-half year contract with Sheffield United.

The former Rangers playmaker has been one of the Blades’ stand out performers on their return to the English Premier League, starting 24 games.

Fleck was named the club’s player of the year in each of the seasons when they won promotion from League One and the Championship and his form at club level helped him earn his first cap in last October’s defeat in Russia.

The 28-year-old was linked with a £20 million move to Arsenal last month but Fleck insists he was more than happy to commit his future to Chris Wilder’s side.

He said: “It is an amazing club. It is one that I always wanted to be part of going forward.

“I've really enjoyed my time here since day one, so I didn't see any reason why I wouldn't want to be here at what is a really exciting time for the club.

“We have been very successful since the manager came in.

“Everyone has worked hard and had a good time here; it has been a great club to come to and I am delighted to be extending my stay.”

United have been the surprise package in the league, with the Bramall Lane outfit currently sitting in seventh place, only four points adrift of the Champions League places.

And manager Wilder admits Fleck has been crucial to the team’s rich vein of form.

Wilder said: “He’s been instrumental and amazing in the way he's stepped up through the divisions with us on our journey.

“We want to keep our best players at the club and John is certainly one of them, so we are thrilled to get this one done.

“His progression has been outstanding in terms of his performances through the divisions and now he's doing it at the highest-level week in, week out and also gaining the recognition for his country as well.”