Schaaf commits future to Bremen

Thomas Schaaf has signed a new deal with Werder Bremen, extending his contract for another two years until the summer of 2012.

High standing
"This shows the high standing Thomas has with us," sporting director Klaus Allofs said. "He has proved over many years he has the skills to improve a team and its players. This has been an important factor in our success." Schaaf, a one-club man, spent his entire playing career at Bremen then joined the coaching staff when he retired in 1994. He was appointed first-team coach alongside former team-mate Allofs in May 1999, and helped his side avoid the drop before lifting the German Cup the same month.

'New challenge'
Since then Schaaf has established Bremen as one of the Bundesliga's top clubs, leading them to the Bundesliga and German Cup double in 2003/04 and the German Cup last season. He also took Bremen to the UEFA Cup final last term, though they were beaten by FC Shakhtar Donetsk. Bremen are fourth in the Bundesliga and are already through to the UEFA Europa League Round of 32. They will clinch top spot in Group L should they avoid losing at Athletic Club on Wednesday, although a one-goal margin of defeat will also suffice. "Werder continue to have an interesting team capable of pursuing new goals," Schaaf said. "That's why it was not difficult to accept this new challenge."