Ernst earns Schalke switch

Old friends
The 25-year-old's contract at the Weserstadion was due to expire in the summer allowing Schalke to step in and offer the German international a five-year deal until 30 June 2010. Ernst will join former Bremen colleagues Mladen Krstajic and Ailton at the Arena AufSchalke, with the pair having left the champions last summer.

'Very satisfied'
Bremen had offered Ernst a new contract but the player decided to opt for a new challenge, much to the delight of his new employers. Schalke general manager Rudi Assauer said: "We're very satisfied to have succeeded in making Fabian Ernst come here. He will be a major reinforcement for us." Schalke, who have reached the UEFA Cup first knockout round, have completed their group stage matches.