ACCRINGTON Stanley midfielder Sean McConville has put happiness above money after signing an extended contract with the Reds.

The wideman attracted interest from a number of clubs this summer but has opted to remain at the Wham Stadium and has penned a new contract keeping him at the club until 2021.

And the 29-year-old, who impressed last term as the Reds won the League Two title, said it was as much an off the field decision as it was about the club on the pitch.

"Everyone knows that I could have earned a little bit more at another club but your happiness comes over stuff like that," he said.

"I am happy where I am and I smile coming into work every day. I love training, I have a good bond with the lads and I just love this club.

"I wanted to have a shot at League One so that was another big factor. To achieve what we achieved last year and then to leave would have been a bit of a sour note for myself.

"A three-year deal gives me security so different things come into play and happiness is key for me and that's why I signed the deal."

McConville is in his second spell with the Reds and revealed he had learnt his lesson from his departure in 2011 when he joined Stockport County, a move that failed to work out.

"I could go and earn a bit more money somewhere else but happiness is the key," he added. "I have done that before, left for a bit more money and it didn't work out. Coming into work with a smile on your face is more valuable than money."

And McConville, who scored 13 goals for Stanley last season, now wants to try and convince other Reds stars wanted by other clubs - notably Kayden Jackson - to remain with John Coleman's side.

"You can only give your opinion and tell your story," he said of offering advice to his teammates. "Sometimes you can leave for money but the grass isn't always greener and it is not always about money.

"I wouldn't fault anyone for wanting to higher themselves. If a Championship club comes in for a player it is going to be hard to keep them here, that is just a fact. We haven't got the facilities of a Championship club but maybe me signing a deal will sway one or two to sign contracts."

McConville becomes the latest in a line of Stanley players to sign extended contracts and on the deal he said: "Going into the season the last thing you want hanging over your head is toing and froing over a deal and interest from other clubs maybe turning your head.

"But it was always in my head that I wanted to stay.

"I have worked so hard since I have come back and I get on so well with the management team here, I love the fans and I wanted to stay.

"It was just sorting little bits of the deal out and we have finally done that and I am so happy to be here for the next three years."

“I feel I play my best football under the management here and it wasn’t a hard decision to stay here and hopefully we will have another season like last season.”