Daniel Ayala has signed a new four-year contract with Middlesbrough ahead of its top-flight return.
The Spaniard's defensive work was instrumental to Boro ending six years in the Championship, cutting a composed and commanding figure over 35 league outings.
"I didn't think about anything else. I only had one decision in my mind and that was to sign with Middlesbrough," said Ayala. "When I wasn't at my best Boro gave me the chance, and I've improved myself under Aitor Karanka.
"All of the fans really like me, and I’m really settled here."
The 25-year-old struggled to impose himself in the Premier League during previous stints at Liverpool and Norwich City, but was initially given an opportunity in a loan spell on Teesside shortly before Karanka's hire in 2013. Ayala has since blossomed into the player that many predicted when he spent his formative years in the youth academies of Sevilla and Liverpool.
Middlesbrough begins its 2016-17 campaign against Stoke City on Aug. 13.
