Football In Brief

'Special' Everton deal for Hibbert

* Everton defender Tony Hibbert has signed a new four-year contract, boosting the club's morale after Tim Cahill rejected an improved contract on Monday. Hibbert, 24, who had 12 months remaining on his old contract, was a consistent performer as Everton qualified for the Champions' League by finishing fourth. "I want to stay here because I am an Evertonian and because there is a great bunch of lads at the club," Hibbert said. "I have grown up watching Everton and playing for Everton. The players will do anything for you, on and off the pitch, and that is something special."

New faces boost Celtic in Europe

* Celtic have travelled to Slovakia with five of their new signings for the Champions' League second qualifying round first leg with Artmedia Bratislava tonight. Goalkeeper Artur Boruc, defender Mo Camara, utility man Paul Telfer, strikers Maciej Zurawski and Jérémie Aliadière are in the squad. Defender Adam Virgo is out following knee surgery, while wing-back Didier Agathe has a groin problem.

Rijkaard's future with Barcelona

* Barcelona coach Frank Rijkaard will remain with the Spanish champions for four more years. "We have reached an agreement until 2009 which I will sign after the Asian tour," Rijkaard said. "The club has shown confidence in me and the coaching staff. Now the most important thing is to get on and enjoy the day to day work at the club." Rijkaard led Barça last season to their first La Liga title in six years.

Sunderland fail to attract Rasiak

* Polish international striker Gzegorz Rasiak says he is staying with Championship club Derby, despite interest from Premier League Sunderland, who are reportedly ready to pay about £1m for his services. "I will stay at Derby and help them return to the Premier League next year," Rasiak said. The Sunderland manager Mick McCarthy confirmed that a bid had been made for the player.

Faye to bolster Bolton defence

* Lens have announced that Senegal defender, Abdoulaye Faye, has joined Bolton on a season-long loan with a view to a permanent move, while Riccardo Fuller's move from Portsmouth to Southampton will not be on the cheap, according to Pompey chairman Milan Mandaric. "We want to recoup money for him and they're not going to get him for free." Mandaric said.