Liverpool FC goalkeeper Pepe Reina has signed a new six-year contract.

The 27-year-old Spanish international said: "I'm delighted to sign a new contract. It's probably the best news of my life that I'll be here for the next six years."

Reina has been Rafael Benítez's No1 since his move from Villarreal CF in 2005. He has started every league fixture since the start of the 2006/07 season and played 177 top-flight games for the Merseyside club.

Liverpool progressed to the UEFA Europa League semi-finals with a 4-1 win against SL Benfica on Thursday and will meet Club Atlético de Madrid – the club Reina's father, Miguel, represented – in the last four. "To play for Liverpool is very special," added Reina, capped 19 times by Spain.

"I've been here for five years and now I will be here for six more and it's very exciting. Me and my family are really happy here. My kids enjoy it and they have picked up the scouse accent already. I am really proud of that."