ARGYLE defender Gary Sawyer has agreed a new three-year deal with the Pilgrims.

The cultured North Devonian celebrated his 22nd birthday on Thursday by signing an improved contract that will see him remain at Home Park until the summer of 2010.

Sawyer's new deal replaces the previous two-year agreement he had with the club, which he signed only last November, soon after his first-team debut at Colchester.

"I think Gary Sawyer is going to be an outstanding young gentleman and an outstanding young player," said Holloway.

"I don't see anything stopping him being a top-level player. He's quick, he's hungry and, for someone who is not the tallest, he's great in the air. He can play at left-back or as a left-sided centre-back, and I think he could maybe even play the holding role in midfield.

"I like everything about him. He's an absolutely top-class young gentleman. I never pull any punches or tell any lies. I'm very proud of him and so should his family. I know they are."

The 21-year-old enjoyed a breakthrough season last season, making 26 appearances for Ian Holloway's side as they registered their highest league position for two decades, finishing 11th in the Coca-Cola Championship.

The new deal reflects the rapid and impressive progress that the Bideford-based defender has made.

Sawyer, the Pilgrims' fans' choice as Young Player of the Season in 2006-07, is a product of the Argyle youth set-up and spent on time on loan at Weymouth in the 2003-04 season.

His next two seasons were spent on loan at Devon rivals Exeter City, where he featured in the two memorable FA Cup encounters with Manchester United.

Sawyer, who prefers to play at centre-back, but can also do a job at left-back, returned to Argyle at the end of the season before last and immediately impressed Holloway with his determination to establish himself at Home Park.

Sawyer was justifiably awarded the Young Player of the Season trophy in recognition of his committed and consistent performances.