Wolves today announced Stephen Ward has been rewarded for his excellent start to the season with a new three-and-a-half year contract.

The 26-year-old, who completed the deal before heading out with Ireland for tonight’s Euro 2012 play-off first leg in Estonia, is now tied to Molineux until 2015.

His previous deal was due to expire in 2013 and the Irishman becomes the second player in as many days to be announced as committing his long-term future after keeper Carl Ikeme’s similar deal yesterday.

Manager Mick McCarthy said: “He’s earned a new deal by the manner of his performances. He’s made a great start to this season, not only in the defensive side but also by chipping in with a couple of goals.

“He’s one of the best professionals I’ve ever worked with.”

McCarthy is so impressed with Ward’s performances that he’s called off his search for a left-back.

McCarthy looked at Paul Konchesky, Ryan Bertrand and Lee Wallace among others last summer but decided they were no better than Ward and George Elokobi.

“Ward has got better and that’s a credit to him and George because I thought I could sign someone better,” said the boss.

“I was looking for another left-back but Wardy’s a Premier League left-back.

“George has been very good when he’s played, but Wardy has made it his own at the moment and got better.

Speaking from Estonia, where he has been named in the starting line-up to win his eighth cap, Ward said: “I’m happy to have signed and am looking forward to helping Wolves move up the Premier League table.”