Everton trigger Abdoulaye Doucoure’s one-year contract extension until June 2024

Everton have activated Abdoulaye Doucoure’s one-year contract extension ahead of their decisive final match of the season against Bournemouth.

Sean Dyche’s side, who hold a slender two-point advantage over relegation rivals Leicester and Leeds heading into the final weekend, can secure their Premier League safety with a win against the travelling Cherries at Goodison Park on Sunday.

Although top flight survival has yet to be assured, Everton confirmed on Tuesday that Doucoure will remain at the club until June 2024, with his contract initially set to expire at the end of the season.

The Mali international has emerged an instrumental figure in Dyche’s fight against the drop, contributing four goals and two assists since March.

The industrious midfielder has profited from a more advanced role under Dyche, starring alongside defensive anchors Idrissa Gueye and Amadou Onana in the engine room.

Everton have decided to activate Abdoulaye Doucoure’s one-year contract extension option

Sean Dyche’s side will fight for Premier League safety on Sunday as they take on Bournemouth

Doucoure, pictured next to Dwight McNeil (right), has scored four goals in his last nine games

His first-half brace against Brighton two weeks ago helped the Toffees carve out a pivotal 5-1 win at the Amex.

Doucoure has chalked up 94 appearances since his £20million move from Watford in 2020, scoring nine goals in total.

The 30-year-old star fell out of favour during Frank Lampard’s tenure at the club but has since shown the Everton board he is worthy of an extra season at Goodison Park.

Having previously represented the Hornets, Doucoure has played in each of the last seven Premier League seasons, racking up 24 top flight appearances this term.