BILLY Kee insists extending his contract with Accrington Stanley was an easy decision, revealing that if he wasn't at the Reds he would no longer be a professional footballer.

The Reds striker, who has eight goals to his name this term, has signed the longest deal in the club's recent history and committed himself to the Wham Stadium until 2021.

The 26-year-old's contract was due to expire in the summer but the striker, who is in his second spell at the club, has now secured a longer stay.

He said: “I am delighted to have signed a new deal. If it wasn’t for this club I wouldn’t be in football anymore. Thanks to the gaffer (John Coleman), Jimmy (Bell) and owner Andy Holt.

“This is the most settled I have been and it’s where I play my best football. To get this deal sorted means the world to me.

“I would also like to thank all the staff and fans for being here for me in my two spells at the club.”

Kee is on 49 goals for Stanley and told the Lancashire Telegraph last week that he wanted to reach a century of strikes for the Reds.

Accrington boss Coleman is also pleased to see his striker committing his future to the club.

“It’s good to get someone of Billy’s stature on board long term," Coleman told Stanley's official website.

“Too many times players who have done well for have us have seen their contracts out knowing they will be coveted by other teams in the league.

“I think we are the best club for Billy at this stage of his career and his life and we do handle him the best.

“I certainly think we have got the best out of him and it’s a case of probably needing each other. This new deal works for everyone.”