Latics are delighted by Dale Stephens' decision to sign a new three-year contract.

The 22-year-old midfield player, who was in the final year of his deal at Boundary Park, has pledged his future to Latics until June 2013.

After several weeks of talks, the negotiations today reached a successful conclusion with Paul Dickov elated to witness Stephens signing his new extended contract.

The Latics manager also believes Stephens, who only made his first-team debut last December, is destined for a successful career.

He said: "It is a great signing and a measure of Dale's commitment to the club.

"I knew Dale would be a big player for us when I arrived and he has improved further in the short time I have been here.

"I believe Dale will only get better and he has the ability to go all the way to the top. It was important to secure his services on a long-term deal."

Dickov added that Stephens did not take much persuasion to stay at Boundary Park  and he never once hinted at wanting to leave.

"There is a good buzz and vibes about the place and Dale wants to be part of that," he explained.

Stephens says he is happy to have the matter resolved enabling him to concentrate on his football.

He added that the events of the last nine months have been a surprise after he struggled to establish a first-team place in his first 18 months at Boundary Park.

Stephens explained: "I have gone from nothing to something and it has been an amazing time.

"I had injury problems after I joined the club and needed a chance which I got when Jon Worthington was injured. His misfortune was my lucky break and I have never looked back."

It is hard to believe Stephens, who was captured from neighbours Bury, has still made only 29 first-team appearances for Latics scoring four goals.

And looking ahead to the season which has just kicked off, Stephens said: "There is a great buzz about the place. We are all pulling together and that is why I wanted to sign and be part of it."