Double boost for Kaiserslautern

1. FC Kaiserslautern striker Marian Hristov has signed a three-year extension to his contract which will now run until 30 July 2005.

Serious knee injury
The former Bulgarian international, who joined the German side in 1997, tore cruciate ligaments in his right knee in July 2001, ruling him out of the first six months of the current 1. Bundesliga season. But his recovery is on schedule and Hristov should return to action straight after the winter break at the end of January.

Djorkaeff on course
On a further positive note for the Fritz-Walter-Stadion outfit, midfield player Youri Djorkaeff is expected to be back to full fitness next month.

Torn ligaments
The Frenchman tore ligaments in his right foot during a scoreless draw with FC Schalke 04 on 27 October and has since undergone treatment in Lyon with the French national team doctor. "I think I can begin running next week and after that I should gradually be able to join the rest of the squad," said Djorkaeff.