Aron Gunnarsson committed his playing future to Cardiff City soon after the end of last season.

Iceland’s captain has now signed his new contract, which runs until next summer, and manager Neil Warnock is delighted, saying: “I knew six weeks ago Aron would be staying, but we had to make sure he came through the World Cup okay.

“He told me he wants to repay Vincent Tan for the way he has been treated by this club and help them stay in the Premier League.

“It’s great to have him in our dressing room as we go into the Premier League.

“I read blogs and there are people who say get rid of this guy or that guy, but you have to be on the inside to know how good our players are.”

Gunnarsson, Cardiff’s longest serving player, missed the end of last season because of injury and worked hard to ensure he was fit for the World Cup in Russia.

“It’s taken a little while, but it’s definitely been worth the wait,” said Gunnarsson. “I always wanted to stay and told the gaffer that. I didn’t say much in the news because I just wanted to do my job on the pitch.

“It was tough work to get back, ready to represent my country at the World Cup and Cardiff City. Signing this deal has been my number one priority.

“Credit to the owner and the gaffer. They have worked hard to get the right players in and I can see there have been good signings. It’s all coming together with players who have been around for a while signing new deals too.

“My little boy was born in Cardiff and I’ve been through a lot with this club and the fans. I just can’t wait to pull on the strip again to represent the capital of Wales in the Premier League.”

The Bluebirds players are back in pre-season training, while their first match is at Taffs Well FC in Cardiff on Friday (7pm).

Warnock’s squad will then set off for their week-long tour to Cornwall and Devon.