Böhme looking for fresh start

Great start
The UEFA Cup contenders will hand the left-sided player a free transfer during the winter break, despite his present contract not expiring until 2006. Böhme joined Schalke in 2000 from DSC Arminia Bielefeld and helped them win the German Cup in 2001 and 2002, as well as featuring in the 2001/02 UEFA Champions League.

Difficult relationship
However, player and club have had a difficult relationship, with Böhme reportedly close to leaving on several occasions. Nonetheless, he signed a new deal in May 2003 after both sides said their problems were in the past but then had the misfortune to suffer a knee injury that sidelined him for much of last season.

Lack of action
Böhme has made only two Bundesliga appearances this term, both as substitute, and has not played a full 90 minutes since the 5-0 UEFA Intertoto Cup win against FK Vardar in July. The 30-year-old has ten Germany caps, having been involved at the start of the UEFA EURO 2004™ qualifying campaign before his injury lay-off.

Sand staying
Meanwhile, the 32-year-old Sand today agreed a contract extension that will take him up to the end of the 2005/06 season. "It has always been my aim to end my career at Schalke," said the former Bröndby IF forward, who moved to Schalke in 1999. Coach Ralf Rangnick said: "I am happy this is done because Ebbe is a very important part of our team."