Hässler ends Salzburg stay
Friday, May 14, 2004
Article summary
Former German international Thomas Hässler has agreed to leave SV Austria Salzburg at the end of the season.
Article body
Injury troubles
The 37-year-old midfielder had the option to extend his contract for another year at the club he joined last summer from TSV 1860 München, but he has played only 19 times in an injury-hit campaign and after 20 seasons in the game may now retire. Hässler, who currently has a knee problem, will at least feature in Salzburg's final home match against SK Rapid Wien on 20 May.
'Outstanding sportsman'
"Thomas Hässler has shown himself to be an outstanding sportsman here in Salzburg and we would like to thank him for his commitment," read a statement on the club's website.
Lengthy career
Born in Berlin, 'Icke' made his debut for 1. FC Köln in 1984/85 and played 400 German Bundesliga games for Karlsruher SC, BV Borussia Dortmund and 1860. He also had spells with Serie A sides Juventus FC and AS Roma.
International honours
Germany's Footballer of the Year in 1989 and 1992, he won 101 senior caps and was part of the Federal Republic of Germany team that won the 1990 World Cup and the unified side that triumphed at EURO '96™.
