St Mirren manager Danny Lennon has said that Jim Goodwin’s decision to extend his stay in Paisley is a huge boost to the club.

Goodwin agreed a two year contract extension after considering a pre-contract offer from Hibs. Lennon said that the display of commitment from the player was an indication of the progress being made at the club.

"Jim has a big part to play in what we are trying to build at this football club," Lennon said.

"It was very flattering for him that a club of Hibernian's stature comes looking for his service.

"We try to compete as best we can with the other clubs and I think it is a credit to everyone involved at St Mirren, from the fans to the directors to the staff and players here, that that type of player has chosen to stay."

Goodwin revealed that he was never on the verge of leaving and that his pleasure at being a part of Lennon’s squad was a key factor in his contract decision.

"I think everyone had written me off at St Mirren," he said.

"I was never that close to leaving to be honest. Hibs had expressed an interest and out of respect for Pat Fenlon and Hibs it was right that I spoke to them and heard what they had to say.

"But when I sat down and had a moment to myself I thought I was giving up an awful lot here, in terms of relationships, the captaincy and what we are trying to do.

"I enjoy going to work every day. I enjoy the training sessions because they are football daft here.

"St Mirren play the way I want to play and that was a huge factor in my decision.

"So I am looking forward to the rest of the season and the next couple of years."